Prototype test on X-bracing panels using cold-formed lipped angles

The behavior and suitability of cold-formed lipped angle members for X-bracing with redundant have been studied. For the purpose, two full-scale panel tests were carried out. The first panel was designed so that the compression member would fail by buckling in flexural mode and the second panel in flexural-torsional mode. The members were designed using ASCE Manual No. 52. Theoretical aspects of least radius of gyration and buckling behavior of this bracing system have been discussed. The investigation on first panel, revealed that the member would buckle only in the flexural-torsional mode although flexural buckling would govern the design. The second panel test result showed that, the buckling mode and strength of the system for lipped angle sections can be predicted reasonably well.