WF collector to shear wall top track

[enigma2]

I have an interior steel stud shear wall (steel studs with gypsum sheathing) with a WF beam that runs over the top of the wall acting as a collector/drag strut to transfer the diaphragm load into the shear wall. What type of connection do I provide between the top track of the shear wall and the bottom flange of the collector beam? The WF collector carries the gravity load, so it will deflect, so I think I need to leave space between the top track and the top of the stud so the gravity load doesn't bear down onto the wall. However, I think I need a horizontal slip connection between the track and the stud. Am I on the right track? Does anyone have an elegant solution on how to detail this connection?

 

[msquared48]

You could use a wood plate set to the underside of the bottom flange of the W Shape with Nelson Sill Plate Anchors, then a Simpson DTC clip or equal, nailed to the wood plate and welded to the side of the track of the shear wall, or nailed to the shear wall sheathing.

The DTC clip has vertically slotted holes to allow for vertical defection.

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering
Motto: KISS
Motivation: Don't ask

 

[larsacious]

I would use something like a 14 GA. track with 4" vertical legs with 2" vertical slots to connect the studs (you will need to check deflection and shear capacity of connection). This will allow deflection and still transfer shear in the plan of the wall.

 

[rscassar]

Tack weld the top track to the WF and provide metal teks in vertically slotted holes. Specify where the builder needs to position teks so the connection does not transfer vertical load.

This sounds like a steel framed building with internal partitions which you are trying to use to resist lateral forces?

 

[anchorengineer]

I want to make sure I understand you correctly. Do you have a WF beam bearing on a masonry or concrete wall? If so, fasten a metal slip track with long legs to the underside of the WF with powder actuated fasteners or gas nails. Check out Hilti, Powers or Redhead. Then do as larsacious said. You should be able to find standard details for a slip track on Detrich's (or other light gage steel manufacturers) website.
Good luck!

http://www.anchorengineer.com