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North American Specification for the Design of Cold-Formed Steel

Structural Members

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Asked Questions

For over 50years, the American Iron and Steel Institute has published the widely used
Specification for the Design of Cold-Formed Steel Structural
Members.

NASPEC Table of
Contents (.PDF)

Recently, as a result of collaborative efforts with representatives

of Canada and Mexico, the AISI Specification was expanded into
a new document for use in all three countries.

Paper Discussing
Diference Between
NASPEC 1996 and 2001
(.PDF)

Now known as the North American Specification for the Design of

Cold-Formed Steel Structural Members, the new edition
supersedes the previous AISI Specification and the Canadian
S136 Standard.

SUMMARY OF MAJOR
CHANGES AND
IMPROVEMENTS IN
THE 2001 NORTH
AMERICAN
SPECIFICATION
FOR THE DESIGN OF
COLD-FORMED STEEL
STRUCTURAL MEMBERS
(.PDF)

NASPEC Links

NASPEC Table of Contents (.PDF)

Buy It Now:
North American
Specification for the
Design of
Cold-Formed Steel
Structural Members
and Commentary

Paper Discussing Diference Between NASPEC 1996 and 2001 (.PDF)

SUMMARY OF MAJOR CHANGES AND IMPROVEMENTS IN THE 2001 NORTH AMERICAN

SPECIFICATION FOR THE DESIGN OF COLD-FORMED STEEL STRUCTURAL MEMBERS(.
PDF)

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Copyright 2005, American Iron and Steel Institute

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Frequently Asked Questions

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About the
North American Specifications for the
Design of Cold-Formed Steel Structural Members
Question: What's special about this edition of the North American Specification?

NASPEC Links
NASPEC Info Home
NASPEC Frequently Asked
Questions

Answer: This is the first edition of the North American Specification for the Design of ColdFormed Steel Structural Members, which is an ANSI-approved American National Standard,
approved in Canada by Canadian Standards Association (CSA) and approved in Mexico by
CANACERO. The Specification is intended for use throughout the United States, Canada, and
Mexico.

NASPEC Table of Contents (.

PDF)

Question: What are the benefits of having this North American Specification?

Paper Discussing Diference

Between NASPEC 1996 and
2001 (.PDF)

Answer: There are several benefits, which include the following:

SUMMARY OF MAJOR
CHANGES AND
IMPROVEMENTS IN
THE 2001 NORTH
AMERICAN SPECIFICATION
FOR THE DESIGN OF COLDFORMED STEEL
STRUCTURAL MEMBERS(.
PDF)
Buy It Now:
North American
Specification for the Design
of
Cold-Formed Steel
Structural Members
and Commentary

It will raise cold-formed steel design technology to the same level in all NAFTA countries.
Since this Specification is the foundation for the design of major cold-formed product lines
including steel decking, standing-seam roofing, steel building systems, storage racks and
cold-formed framing, the unified Specification will enhance the cold-formed steel industry
in the region. Standardization of engineering will also allow faster introduction of new
technologies.
Manufacturers of steel construction products should see increased productivity because
they will no longer need to re-engineer their products or systems to different standards.
Designers who practice across borders will no longer need to learn multiple design
standards.
Wider dissemination of software and design aids will allow those previously unfamiliar with
the design of cold-formed steel to more easily learn to design with steel technology. The
Specification will also provide AISI, CSA and CANACERO with the opportunity to develop
and distribute a wide variety of derivative products.

Question: How was the Specification written?

Answer: This first edition of the North American Specification was developed based on the
American Iron and Steel Institute's (AISI) Specification for the Design of Cold-Formed Steel
Structural Members and the Canadian Standards Association's (CSA) Standard S136-94, Cold
Formed Steel Structural Members. This first edition was the result of a cooperative effort by the
North American Specification Committee (from the U.S., Canada and Mexico), the AISI
Committee on Specifications for the Design of Cold-Formed Steel Structural Members, and the
CSA Committee on Cold Formed Steel Structural Members.
Question: How will the new Specification affect previous ones?
Answer: The North American Specification will supersede the previous editions of the
Specification for the Design of Cold-Formed Steel Structural Members, published by American
Iron and Steel Institute; and the previous editions of CSA Standard S136, Cold Formed Steel
Structural Members, published by the Canadian Standards Association.
Question: Is the North American Specification approved by ANSI?

Answer: Yes. The North American Specification is approved by American National Standards
Institute (ANSI) as the American National Standard. The designation number is AISI/COS/
. NASPEC 2001, and the approval date is June 5, 2002.
Question: Are there any documents or articles that explain the differences between the 1996
Specification edition and this new edition?

Answer: Comparisons and reviews are provided in the following articles:

1. Technical Bulletin published by Wei-Wen Yu Center for Cold-Formed Steel Structures,
Summary of Major Changes and Improvements in the 2001 North American Specification for the
Design of Cold-Formed Steel Structural Members.
2. Paper by Roger Brockenbrough and Helen Chen, North American Specification for Design of
Cold-Formed Steel
Question: How is the North American Specification structured?
Answer: The North American Specification includes a main document, Chapters A through G,
that is intended for use in all three countries (the United States, Canada, and Mexico), and
three country-specific appendices (A to C).
Appendix A is for use in the United States,
Appendix B is for use in Canada, and Appendix C is for use in Mexico. This Specification provides
an integrated treatment of Allowable Strength Design (ASD), Load and Resistance Factor Design
(LRFD), and Limit States Design (LSD).
This is accomplished by including the appropriate resistance factors (f) for use with LRFD and
LSD, and the appropriate factors of safety (W) for use with ASD. It should be noted that LSD is
limited to Canada and LRFD and ASD are limited to the United States and Mexico.
A table of contents for the Specification is provided.
Question: How do I order the Specification and the Commentary and what is the cost?
Answer: The publications can be ordered through the AISI website e-Store by following the
links below. You can also call 1-800-277-3850 to place the order.
The publication number and the price are as follows:

About

Publications/Publication Number

Price

Both Specification and Commentary SG02-1 and SG02-2

$99.00

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Copyright 2005, American Iron and Steel Institute

North American Cold-Formed Steel Specification

TABLE OF CONTENTS
NORTH AMERICAN SPECIFICATION FOR THE DESIGN OF
COLD-FORMED STEEL STRUCTURAL MEMBERS
2001 EDITION
PREFACE................................................................................................................................................3
SYMOBLS AND DEFINITIONS ..............................................................................................................15
A. GENERAL PROVISIONS .................................................................................................................33
A1 Limits of Applicability and Terms ............................................................................................. 33
A1.1 Scope and Limits of Applicability................................................................................... 33
A1.2 Terms ............................................................................................................................... 34
A1.3 Units of Symbols and Terms............................................................................................ 37
A2 Material .......................................................................................................................................... 37
A2.1 Applicable Steels ............................................................................................................... 37
A2.2 Other Steels ........................................................................................................................ 38
A2.3 Ductility .............................................................................................................................. 38
A2.4 Delivered Minimum Thickness....................................................................................... 40
A3 Loads .............................................................................................................................................. 40
A4 Allowable Strength Design ......................................................................................................... 40
A4.1 Design Basis ....................................................................................................................... 40
A4.1.1 ASD Requirements ............................................................................................. 40
A4.1.2 Load Combinations for ASD............................................................................. 41
A5 Load and Resistance Factor Design ........................................................................................... 41
A5.1 Design Basis ....................................................................................................................... 41
A5.1.1 LRFD Requirements........................................................................................... 41
A5.1.2 Load Factors and Load Combinations for LRFD ........................................... 41
A6 Limit States Design....................................................................................................................... 41
A6.1 Design Basis ....................................................................................................................... 41
A6.1.1 LSD Requirements.............................................................................................. 41
A6.1.2 Load Factors and Load Combinations for LSD.............................................. 42
A7 Yield Point and Strength Increase from Cold Work of Forming ........................................... 42
A7.1 Yield Point .......................................................................................................................... 42
A7.2 Strength Increase from Cold Work of Forming ............................................................ 42
A8 Serviceability ................................................................................................................................. 43
A9 Referenced Documents ................................................................................................................ 43
B. ELEMENTS .....................................................................................................................................45
B1 Dimensional Limits and Considerations................................................................................... 45
B1.1 Flange Flat-Width-to-Thickness Considerations .......................................................... 45
B1.2 Maximum Web Depth-to-Thickness Ratios................................................................... 46
B2 Effective Widths of Stiffened Elements ..................................................................................... 47
B2.1 Uniformly Compressed Stiffened Elements .................................................................. 47
B2.2 Uniformly Compressed Stiffened Elements with Circular Holes .............................. 49
B2.3 Webs and other Stiffened Elements under Stress Gradient ........................................ 49
B2.4 C-Section Webs with Holes under Stress Gradient ...................................................... 51
B3 Effective Widths of Unstiffened Elements ................................................................................ 52
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Table of Contents

B3.1 Uniformly Compressed Unstiffened Elements ............................................................. 52

B3.2 Unstiffened Elements and Edge Stiffeners under Stress Gradient............................. 52
B4 Effective Widths of Elements with One Intermediate Stiffener or an Edge Stiffener......... 53
B4.1 Uniformly Compressed Elements with One Intermediate Stiffener.......................... 53
B4.2 Uniformly Compressed Elements with an Edge Stiffener........................................... 54
B5 Effective Widths of Stiffened Elements with Multiple Intermediate Stiffeners or Edge
Stiffened Elements with Intermediate Stiffeners...................................................................... 56
B5.1 Effective Widths of Uniformly Compressed Stiffened Elements with Multiple
Intermediate Stiffeners ..................................................................................................... 56
B5.1.1 Specific Case: n Identical Stiffeners, Equally Spaced .................................. 57
B5.1.2 General Case: Arbitrary Stiffener Size, Location and Number.................... 57
B5.2 Edge Stiffened Elements with Intermediate Stiffeners ................................................ 59
C. MEMBERS .....................................................................................................................................60
C1 Properties of Sections................................................................................................................... 60
C2 Tension Members ......................................................................................................................... 60
C3 Flexural Members......................................................................................................................... 60
C3.1 Bending ............................................................................................................................... 60
C3.1.1 Nominal Section Strength [Resistance] ........................................................... 60
C3.1.2 Lateral-Torsional Buckling Strength [Resistance].......................................... 62
C3.1.2.1 Lateral-Torsional Buckling Strength [Resistance] of Open Cross
Section Members............................................................................... 62
C3.1.2.2 Lateral-Torsional Buckling Strength [Resistance] of Closed Box
Members ............................................................................................ 65
C3.1.3 Beams Having One Flange Through-Fastened to Deck or Sheathing......... 65
C3.1.4 Beams Having One Flange Fastened to a Standing Seam Roof System ..... 67
C3.1.5 Strength [Resistance] of Standing Seam Roof Panel Systems ...................... 67
C3.2 Shear ............................................................................................................................... 68
C3.2.1 Shear Strength [Resistance] of Webs without Holes ..................................... 68
C3.2.2 Shear Strength [Resistance] of C-Section Webs with Holes ......................... 69
C3.3 Combined Bending and Shear......................................................................................... 69
C3.3.1 ASD Method........................................................................................................ 69
C3.3.2 LRFD and LSD Methods.................................................................................... 70
C3.4 Web Crippling ................................................................................................................... 71
C3.4.1 Web Crippling Strength [Resistance] of Webs without Holes ..................... 71
C3.4.2 Web Crippling Strength [Resistance] of C-Section Webs with Holes ........ 74
C3.5 Combined Bending and Web Crippling ........................................................................ 75
C3.5.1 ASD Method........................................................................................................ 75
C3.5.2 LRFD and LSD Methods.................................................................................... 77
C3.6 Stiffeners ............................................................................................................................. 79
C3.6.1 Transverse Stiffeners.......................................................................................... 79
C3.6.2 Shear Stiffeners .................................................................................................. 80
C3.6.3 Non-Conforming Stiffeners............................................................................... 80
C4 Concentrically Loaded Compression Members....................................................................... 81
C4.1 Sections Not Subject to Torsional or Torsional-Flexural Buckling............................. 81
C4.2 Doubly- or Singly-Symmetric Sections Subject to Torsional or Torsional-Flexural
Buckling .............................................................................................................................. 82

10

December 2001

North American Cold-Formed Steel Specification

C4.3
C4.4
C4.5
C4.6

Point-Symmetric Sections................................................................................................. 82
Nonsymmetric Sections.................................................................................................... 83
Built-Up Members............................................................................................................. 83
Compression Members Having One Flange Through-Fastened to Deck or
Sheathing ............................................................................................................................ 83
C5 Combined Axial Load and Bending .......................................................................................... 85
C5.1 Combined Tensile Axial Load and Bending.................................................................. 85
C5.1.1 ASD Method........................................................................................................ 85
C5.1.2 LRFD and LSD Methods.................................................................................... 86
C5.2 Combined Compressive Axial Load and Bending ....................................................... 86
C5.2.1 ASD Method........................................................................................................ 86
C5.2.2 LRFD and LSD Methods.................................................................................... 88
C6 Closed Cylindrical Tubular Members ....................................................................................... 91
C6.1 Bending ............................................................................................................................... 91
C6.2 Compression ...................................................................................................................... 91
C6.3 Combined Bending and Compression ........................................................................... 92
D. STRUCTURAL ASSEMBLIES..........................................................................................................93
D1 Built-Up Sections .......................................................................................................................... 93
D1.1 I-Sections Composed of Two C-Sections........................................................................ 93
D1.2 Spacing of Connections in Compression Elements ...................................................... 94
D2 Mixed Systems .............................................................................................................................. 94
D3 Lateral Bracing .............................................................................................................................. 94
D3.1 Symmetrical Beams and Columns .................................................................................. 94
D3.2 C-Section and Z-Section Beams....................................................................................... 94
D3.2.1 Anchorage of Bracing for Roof Systems Under Gravity Load With Top
Flange Connected to Sheathing ........................................................................ 95
D3.2.2 Neither Flange Connected to Sheathing.......................................................... 97
D4 Wall Studs and Wall Stud Assemblies ...................................................................................... 98
D4.1 Compression ...................................................................................................................... 99
D4.2 Bending ............................................................................................................................. 102
D4.3 Combined Axial Load and Bending ............................................................................. 102
D5 Floor, Roof or Wall Steel Diaphragm Construction............................................................... 102
E. CONNECTIONS AND JOINTS ....................................................................................................... 104
E1 General Provisions ..................................................................................................................... 104
E2 Welded Connections .................................................................................................................. 104
E2.1 Groove Welds in Butt Joints........................................................................................... 104
E2.2 Arc Spot Welds ................................................................................................................ 105
E2.2.1 Shear
........................................................................................................... 104
E2.2.2 Tension ........................................................................................................... 108
E2.3 Arc Seam Welds............................................................................................................... 104
E2.4 Fillet Welds....................................................................................................................... 110
E2.5 Flare Groove Welds......................................................................................................... 112
E2.6 Resistance Welds ............................................................................................................. 114
E2.7 Fracture in Net Section of Members other than Flat Sheets (Shear Lag) ................. 115
E3 Bolted Connections..................................................................................................................... 116

December 2001

11

Table of Contents

E3.1 Shear, Spacing and Edge Distance................................................................................ 116

E3.2 Fracture in Net Section (Shear Lag) .............................................................................. 117
E3.3 Bearing ............................................................................................................................. 117
E3.3.1 Strength [Resistance] without Consideration of Bolt Hole Deformation . 117
E3.3.2 Strength [Resistance] with Consideration of Bolt Hole Deformation ....... 118
E3.4 Shear and Tension in Bolts............................................................................................. 118
E4 Screw Connections ..................................................................................................................... 118
E4.1 Minimum Spacing........................................................................................................... 119
E4.2 Minimum Edge and End Distances .............................................................................. 119
E4.3 Shear ............................................................................................................................. 119
E4.3.1 Connection Shear Limited by Tilting and Bearing ...................................... 119
E4.3.2 Connection Shear Limited by End Distance ................................................. 120
E4.3.3 Shear in Screws ................................................................................................. 120
E4.4 Tension ............................................................................................................................. 120
E4.4.1 Pull-Out ........................................................................................................... 120
E4.4.2 Pull-Over ........................................................................................................... 120
E4.4.3 Tension in Screws ............................................................................................. 120
E5 Rupture ........................................................................................................................................ 120
E6 Connections to Other Materials................................................................................................ 121
E6.1 Bearing ............................................................................................................................. 121
E6.2 Tension ............................................................................................................................. 121
E6.3 Shear ............................................................................................................................. 121
F. TESTS FOR SPECIAL CASES ...................................................................................................... 122
F1 Tests for Determining Structural Performance ...................................................................... 122
F1.1 Load and Resistance Factor Design and Limit States Design ................................... 122
F1.2 Allowable Strength Design ............................................................................................ 126
F2 Tests for Confirming Structural Performance ........................................................................ 126
F3 Tests for Determining Mechanical Properties ........................................................................ 126
F3.1 Full Section ....................................................................................................................... 126
F3.2 Flat Elements of Formed Sections ................................................................................. 127
F3.3 Virgin Steel ....................................................................................................................... 127
G. DESIGN OF COLD-FORMED STEEL STRUCTURAL MEMBERS AND CONNECTIONS FOR CYCLIC
LOADING (FATIGUE) ................................................................................................................... 128
G1 General ......................................................................................................................................... 128
G2 Calculation of Maximum Stresses and Stress Ranges ........................................................... 129
G3 Design Stress Range ................................................................................................................... 129
G4 Bolts and Threaded Parts .......................................................................................................... 130
G5 Special Fabrication Requirements ............................................................................................ 131
PREFACE TO APPENDIX A.................................................................................................................. A2
APPENDIX A: PROVISIONS APPLICABLE TO THE UNITED STATES................................................... A3
A1.1a Scope and Limits of Applicability.................................................................................. A3
A2.2 Other Steels ....................................................................................................................... A3
A3 Loads ............................................................................................................................................. A3
A3.1 Nominal Loads ................................................................................................................. A3
A4.1.2 Load Combinations for ASD............................................................................ A3
12

December 2001

North American Cold-Formed Steel Specification

A5.1.2 Load Factors and Load Combinations for LRFD .......................................... A4

A9a Referenced Documents ............................................................................................................... A4
C2 Tension Members ........................................................................................................................ A4
C3.1.4 Beams Having One Flange Fastened to a Standing Seam Roof System .... A5
E2a Welded Connections ................................................................................................................... A5
E3a Bolted Connections...................................................................................................................... A6
E3.1 Shear, Spacing and Edge Distance................................................................................. A7
E3.2 Fracture in Net Section (Shear Lag) ............................................................................... A8
E3.4 Shear and Tension in Bolts.............................................................................................. A9
E4.3.2 Connection Shear Limited by End Distance ................................................ A14
E5 Rupture ....................................................................................................................................... A14
E5.1 Shear Rupture ................................................................................................................. A14
E5.2 Tension Rupture ............................................................................................................. A14
E5.3 Block Shear Rupture ...................................................................................................... A14
PREFACE TO APPENDIX B: ................................................................................................................ B2
APPENDIX B: PROVISIONS APPLICABLE TO CANADA ...................................................................... B3
A1.2a Terms ...............................................................................................................................B3
A2.1a Applicable Steels ...............................................................................................................B3
A2.2 Other Steels ........................................................................................................................B3
A2.2.1 Other Structural Quality Steels.........................................................................B3
A2.2.2 Other Steels..........................................................................................................B3
A2.4a Delivered Minimum Thickness.......................................................................................B3
A3 Loads ..............................................................................................................................................B4
A3.1 Specified Loads..................................................................................................................B4
A3.2 Temperature Effects ..........................................................................................................B5
A6.1.2 Load Factors and Load Combinations for LSD..............................................B5
A6.1.2.1 Load Factors () ................................................................................B5
A6.1.2.2 Load Combination Factor () .........................................................B5
A6.1.2.3 Importance Factor () .......................................................................B5
A9a Reference Documents ..................................................................................................................B6
C2 Tension Members .........................................................................................................................B6
C2.1 Yielding of Gross Section .................................................................................................B6
C2.2 Fracture of Net Section .....................................................................................................B6
C3.1.4 Beams Having One Flange Fastened to a Standing Seam Roof System .....B7
D3a Lateral Bracing ..............................................................................................................................B7
D3.1a Symmetrical Beams and Columns ..................................................................................B7
D3.1.1 Discrete Bracing ..................................................................................................B8
D3.1.2 Bracing by Deck, Slab, or Sheathing ................................................................B8
D3.2a C-Section and Z-Section Beams.......................................................................................B8
D3.2.3 Discrete Bracing ..................................................................................................B8
D3.2.4 One Flange Braced by Deck, Slab, or Sheathing ............................................B8
D3.2.5 Both Flanges Braced by Deck, Slab, or Sheathing..........................................B9
E2a Welded Connections ....................................................................................................................B9
E2.2a Arc Spot Welds ..................................................................................................................B9
E2.3a Arc Seam Welds.................................................................................................................B9
E3a Bolted Connections.....................................................................................................................B10

December 2001

13

Table of Contents

E3.1
E3.2
E3.3a
E3.4

Shear, Spacing and Edge Distance................................................................................B10

Fracture in Net Section (Shear Lag) ..............................................................................B10
Bearing .............................................................................................................................B11
Shear and Tension in Bolts.............................................................................................B11
E4.3.2 Connection Shear Limited by End Distance .................................................B12
E5 Rupture ........................................................................................................................................B12
APPENDIX C: PROVISIONS APPLICABLE TO MEXICO....................................................................... C3
A1.1a Country Specific Scope and Limits of Applicability ................................................... C3
A2.2 Other Steels ....................................................................................................................... C3
A3 Loads ............................................................................................................................................. C3
A3.1 Nominal Loads ................................................................................................................. C3
A4.1.2 Load Combinations for ASD............................................................................ C3
A5.1.2 Load Factors and Load Combinations for LRFD .......................................... C4
A9a Referenced Documents ............................................................................................................... C4
C2 Tension Members ........................................................................................................................ C5
C3.1.4 Beams Having One Flange Fastened to a Standing Seam Roof System .... C5
E2a Welded Connections ................................................................................................................... C5
E3a Bolted Connections...................................................................................................................... C6
E3.1 Shear, Spacing and Edge Distance................................................................................. C7
E3.2 Fracture in Net Section (Shear Lag) ............................................................................... C8
E3.4 Shear and Tension in Bolts.............................................................................................. C9
E4.3.2 Connection Shear Limited by End Distance ................................................ C13
E5 Rupture ....................................................................................................................................... C13
E5.1 Shear Rupture ................................................................................................................. C13
E5.2 Tension Rupture ............................................................................................................. C13
E5.3 Block Shear Rupture ...................................................................................................... C13

14

December 2001

North American Specification for Design of Cold-Formed Steel

Roger L. Brockenbrough1 and Helen H. Chen2
Abstract
For over fifty years, the American Iron and Steel Institute has published the
widely used Specification for the Design of Cold-Formed Steel Structural Members.
Recently, as a result of collaborative efforts with representatives of Canada and
Mexico, the AISI Specification was expanded into a new document for use in all
three countries. Now known as the North American Specification for the Design of
Cold-Formed Steel Structural Members, the new edition supersedes the previous
AISI Specification and the Canadian S136 Standard. This paper reviews the
differences between the previous AISI Specification and the new North American
Specification. The basic core document consists of Chapters A through G, while
country specific issues are addressed in three separate appendices. The
appendices include items of a broad nature, such as provisions for the design
method to be used, the reference source for loads and load combinations, and
other references that are country specific. The appendices also include country
specific technical provisions where full agreement between the three countries
was not reached. Efforts will be made to minimize these differences in future
editions.
Introduction
The premier edition of the 2001 North American Specification for the Design of ColdFormed Steel Structural Members (AISI, 2001), as its name implies, is intended for
use throughout Canada, Mexico and the United States. It supersedes the
previous editions of the Specification for the Design of Cold-Formed Steel Structural
Members, published by the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI, 1996 and
AISI, 1999) for over 50 years, and the S136 Standard for Cold Formed Steel
Structural Members published by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA, 1994)
for many years. This paper summarizes the technical changes between the North
American Specification and the 1996 AISI Specification with the 1999 Supplement.
Research that led to many of these changes is referenced in the Commentary to the
North American Specification.

President, R. L. Brockenbrough & Assoc., Inc., Pittsburgh, Pa., USA and Chairman of the AISI
Committee on Specifications for the Design of Cold-Formed Steel Structural Members
2
Senior Structural Engineer, AISI, Washington, DC, USA

Background
The North American Specification is the result of a collaborative effort of the
American Iron and Steel Institute Committee on Specifications, the Canadian
Standard Association S136 Committee on Specifications, and Camara Nacional
de la Industria del Hiero y del Acero (CANACERO) in Mexico. The development
of the Specification was coordinated through the North American Specifications
Committee, which contained three members each representing AISIs Committee
on Specifications, CSAs S136 Committee, and Mexicos CANACERO. The
committee typically met twice a year beginning in 1995. The then current AISI
Specifications were used as the core document to work from. New or revised
provisions were integrated therein over the last several years to meet the
requirements of all three countries, which approved the final consensus
document.
Specification Format
Since the Specification is intended for use in Canada, Mexico and the United
States, it was necessary to develop a format that would facilitate the allowance of
unique requirements in each country. This resulted in a format that contained a
basic document, Chapters A through G, intended for use in all three countries,
and three country specific appendices, A through C. The appendices include
items of a broad nature, such as provisions for the design method to be used, the
reference source for loads and load combinations, and other references that are
country specific. The appendices also include country specific technical
provisions where full agreement between the three countries was not reached.
Efforts will be made to minimize these differences in future editions.
This Specification provides an integrated treatment of Allowable Strength Design
(ASD), Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD), and Limit States Design
(LSD). This is accomplished by including the appropriate resistance factors ()
for use with LRFD and LSD and the appropriate factors of safety () for use with
ASD.
Summary of Global Changes
1. Applicability. The Specification was expanded to apply to Canada and
Mexico as well as the United States. Most technical provisions were
adopted as common to the three countries. Others that are country specific
were grouped in lettered Appendices that apply only to a specific country:
Appendix A United States, Appendix B Canada, and Appendix C
Mexico.

2. Design Methods. Three design methods are recognized: ASD now

termed Allowable Strength Design, LRFD Load and Resistance Factor
Design, and LSD Limit States Design. The use of ASD and LRFD is
limited to the US and Mexico; LSD is limited to Canada. LRFD and LSD
are essentially the same except for differences in nomenclature, load
factors, load combinations, and target reliability indexes. Equivalent LSD
terminology is shown in brackets throughout the Specification. Since
different target reliabilities are used in the US and Canada, the resistance
factors applicable to the US and Mexico differ from the ones for Canada
throughout the Specification.
3. Units. Although most of the Specification provisions are presented in
dimensionless form, three systems of units are shown where this was not
possible: US customary (kilo-pound, inch), SI (Newton, mm), and MKS
(kg, cm), which is used in Mexico.
4. Fatigue. Chapter G was added to provide for the design of members and
connections subjected to cyclic loading (fatigue).
Summary of Technical Changes
1. A1.1 Scope. For configurations where it is not possible to calculate the
strength or stiffness of members and connections from the provisions of
Chapters B through G, the designer now has two options: (1.) Tests in
accordance with Chapter F or (2.) Rational engineering analysis. A set of
safety factors and resistance factors for members and connections is given
for use with rational analysis.
2. A1.2 Terms. The terminology was updated and expanded.
3. A2.1 Applicable Steels. References to ASTM specifications were updated.
4. A3 Loads. These provisions are given in country specific provisions. For
the US, the provisions defer loads and load combinations to the applicable
building code or ASCE 7, and no load combinations are given in the
document. Also, in A4.1.2, the use of the 0.75 factor on load combinations
for ASD is limited to the combined effect of two or more loads, excluding
dead load. This has the effect of eliminating the traditional 1/3 allowable
stress increase on load combinations that include wind. Specific design
requirements for ponding were deleted as they are covered by the
building codes.

5. B2.1 Uniformly Compressed Stiffened Elements. In determining effective

width, the slenderness factor was expressed in terms of the elastic
critical buckling stress Fcr as = f / Fcr
6. B2.3 Webs and Other Stiffened Elements Under Stress Gradient.
Different expressions are now given for determining the plate buckling
coefficient k depending on the value of ho/bo, where ho is the out-to-out
web dimension and bo is the out-to-out width of the compression flange.
The expressions previously used were based on the assumption that the
flanges restrained the web, but it was determined that this is
unconservative when ho/bo > 4. Therefore, new expressions were added
for the case where ho/bo > 4 and the previous equations retained for the
case where ho/bo 4. Also, the stress ratio is now defined as an absolute
value, so some of the signs in the equations have changed.
7. B4.1 Uniformly Compressed Elements with One Intermediate Stiffener.
The expression for k was revised to eliminate a discontinuity in the
previous expressions.
8. B4.2 Uniformly Compressed Elements with an Edge Stiffener. The
expressions for k were revised to eliminate a discontinuity in the previous
expressions.
9. B5 Effective Widths of Stiffened Elements with Multiple Intermediate
Stiffeners or Edge Stiffened Elements with Intermediate Stiffeners. Based
on the results of new research, this section was completely rewritten and
expanded to include both Stiffened Elements with Multiple Intermediate
Stiffeners and Edge Stiffened Elements with Intermediate Stiffeners.
Stiffened Elements with Multiple Intermediate Stiffeners covers both a
general case (arbitrary stiffener size, location and number) and a specific
case for n identical stiffeners, equally spaced. In the approach adopted, k
is determined as the lesser of the value calculated for both local buckling,
in which the stiffener does not move, and distortional buckling, in which
the stiffener buckles with the entire plate.
10. C2 Tension Members. The provisions for tension members are given in the
appendices. For the U.S., the nominal tensile strength is taken as the
smallest value for the limit states of (a) yielding in the gross section, (b)
fracture in the net section away from connections (not previously
included), and (c) fracture in the effective net section at the connection,
which is treated by reference to Chapter E.

11. C3.2.1 Shear Strength of Webs Without Holes. The coefficients in the
equations were changed slightly after recalibration. A single value was
adopted for the safety factor and the resistance factor, instead of different
values in different web slenderness ranges as in the past.
12. C3.4.1 Web Crippling Strength of Webs without Holes. In the previous
Specification, separate equations were given for the web crippling strength
under different conditions. In the new Specification, as a result of
additional research, a single consistent unified equation was adopted for
the web crippling strength under all conditions.
13. C3.5 Combined Bending and Web Crippling Strength. In the ASD
interaction equation for the support point of two nested Z-shapes, the
coefficients were slightly revised as a result of the changes made in the
web crippling equation.
14. C3.6 Stiffeners. This section was previously located in B6.
15. C4.3 Point-Symmetric Sections. A new section was added to indicate how
the elastic buckling stress should be determined for point-symmetric
sections.
16. C4.5 Built-Up Members. This section was added to provide a general
means of calculating the axial compressive strength of two sections in
contact. It replaces a previous section (D1.1a). An equation is given for
calculating a modified slenderness ratio, an approach that is used in AISC
specifications and others.
17. C5.2 Combined Compressive Axial Load and Bending. For singlysymmetric unstiffened angles with unreduced effective area, the
combined compressive and bending check does not need to consider the
additional moment PL/1000 as required in the previous editions. This
requirement is, however, still needed for other angle sections.
18. D3.2.2 Neither Flange Connected to Sheathing. This section specifies the
force for which intermediate braces for C- and Z-sections must be
designed. A correction was made in the expression for Z-section bracing.
19. E2 Welded Connections. The factors of safety for welded connection
design were recalibrated to agree with the resistance factors.
20. E3.2 Tension Member Shear Lag Effect in Bolted Members. These
provisions are given in the appendices. For the U.S., the equations for the

fracture stress on the net section were revised to reflect the results of
additional research. Eqs. E3.2-2 and E3.2-4, which consider the strength
reduction due to out-of-plane deformation, are limited to connections
with a single row of bolts perpendicular to the force.
21. E3.3.1 Strength Without Consideration of Bolt Hole Deformation. The
equation for bearing strength was revised to reflect the results of
additional research.
22. E4.2 Minimum Edge and End Distance. For screw connections, the
minimum distance from the center of a fastener to the edge of any part
was reduced from 3 diameters to 1.5 diameters. However, if the end
distance is parallel to the force, the shear strength per screw is subject to a
strength reduction.
23. E4.3.3 Shear in Screws. The nominal shear strength was limited to 0.80
times that reported by the manufacturer.
24. E4.4.3 Tension in Screws. The nominal tension strength was limited to 0.80
times that reported by the manufacturer.
Conclusions
The development of the North American Specification for the Design of Cold-Formed
Steel Structural Members provides a unified document that can be used
throughout Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Even though there were a
few areas where full agreement between the three countries was not reached, the
publication of this document is a notable achievement, made possible only by the
continuing spirit of cooperation among representatives of the three countries.
Efforts will be made in future editions to minimize the remaining technical
differences.
Acknowledgements
The consensus committees responsible for developing these provisions provide a
balanced forum including representatives from steel producers, fabricators,
users, educators, researchers, and building code officials. They are composed of
engineers with a wide range of experience and high professional standing from
Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The continuing dedication by the
members of the specifications committees and their subcommittees is gratefully
acknowledged. The efforts of Reinhold M. Schuster, Chairman of the North
American Specifications Committee, in facilitating a consensus between
representatives of the three countries, are especially appreciated.

References
American Iron and Steel Institute (2001), North American Specification for the
Design of Cold-Formed Steel Structural Members, Washington, D.C., 2001.
American Iron and Steel Institute (1996), Specification for the Design of Cold-Formed
Steel Structural Members, Washington, D.C., 1996.
American Iron and Steel Institute (1999), Supplement No. 1 to the Specification for
the Design of Cold-Formed Steel Structural Members, Washington, D.C., 1999.
Canadian Standards Association (1994), S136 - Specification for Cold Formed Steel
Structural Members, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, 1994.

CCFSS Technical Bulletin

Vol. 11, No. 1

February 2002

SUMMARY OF MAJOR CHANGES AND IMPROVEMENTS

IN THE 2001 NORTH AMERICAN SPECIFICATION
FOR THE DESIGN OF COLD-FORMED STEEL STRUCTURAL MEMBERS
The 2001 edition of the North American Specification for the Design of Cold-Formed Steel Structural
Members will soon be issued in Canada, Mexico and the United States. This first edition of the North
American Specification was developed on the basis of the 1996 AISI Specification with the 1999 Supplement,
the 1994 Canadian Standards Association (CSA) Standard S136, and subsequent developments. It includes
a main document applicable to all three countries with Appendix A for US, Appendix B for Canada and
Appendix C for Mexico. A hand point symbol with appendix letters A, B and C is used in the main document
to point out that additional provisions are provided in the corresponding applications.
Three design methods (ASD, LRFD, and LSD) were included in this new North American
Specification. ASD and LRFD methods are used only in the US and Mexico, and LSD is used only in
Canada. The equivalent terms for LSD were included in the brackets for the convenience of LSD users.
The factors of safety and resistance factors were listed in the corresponding design provisions.
This Technical Bulletin presents a brief summary of major changes made in the North American
Specification as compared with the 1996 AISI Specification with the 1999 Supplement. All section numbers
shown below are those used in the North American Specification. The reasoning behind and the justification
for the revisions and additions are discussed in the Commentary on the North American Specification.
A.

General Provisions
A1.1

Scope and Limits of Applicability

This Section was completely revised except for the first paragraph. It specifies that the
Allowable Strength Design (ASD) and Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD) methods
are used in the United States and Mexico, while the Limit Sates Design (LSD) method is
used in Canada according to Chapters A through G, and Appendices A through C for a
specific country. For those special cases where the design strength and/or stiffness cannot
be so determined, it can be established either by tests or by rational engineering analysis on
the basis of the given factor of safety and resistance factor.

A1.2

Terms
This Section was revised to include General Terms, ASD and LRFD Terms (USA and
Mexico), and LSD Terms (Canada).

A1.3

Units of Symbols and Terms

This Section was revised to use U.S. customary units, SI units, and MKS units.

CCFSS Tech Bulletin

February 2002

(Section A2, Non-Conforming Shapes and Construction, of the 1996 AISI Specification
was deleted in the North American Specification.)
A2.1

Applicable Steels
The Section number was changed from A3.1 to A2.1. The ASTM A1008 and A1011 Standards
in the North American Specification replaced the ASTM A570, A607, A611, and A715
Standards in the 1996 AISI Specification and the 1999 Supplement. ASTM A1003 Standard
was added to the list of Section A2.1.

A2.2

Other Steels
The Section number was changed from A3.2 to A2.2. Editorial changes were made in the
text for section numbers. This section was moved to Appendix A for use in the United
States.

A2.3

Ductility
The Section number was changed from A3.3 to A2.3. Editorial revisions were made for the
use of the LSD method and the MKS unit. The ASTM Standards were updated according to
the revisions of Section A2.1.

A2.4

Delivered Minimum Thickness

The Section number was changed from A3.4 to A2.4.

A3

Loads
The Section number was changed from A4 to A3. The design requirements for loads and
load combinations are presented in Section A3 of Appendix A for use in the United States.
The definitions of symbols were deleted. Section A4.2 of the 1996 AISI Specification for
ponding was deleted.

A4

Allowable Strength Design

The Section number was changed from A5 to A4 with a title change from Allowable Stress
Design to Allowable Strength Design.

A4.1

Design Basis
The Section number was changed from A5.1 to A4.1. The term Allowable Stress Design
was changed to Allowable Strength Design. Other editorial revisions were also made in
this Section.

A4.1.1 ASD Requirements

The Section number was changed from A5.1.1 to A4.1.1 with a title change from ASD
Strength Requirements to ASD Requirements.
A4.1.2 Load Combinations for ASD
This Section was completely rewritten by deferring loads and load combinations to applicable
building codes and ASCE 7. It replaces the design requirements previously covered in Sections
A5.1.2, A5.1.3 and A5.1.4 of the 1996 AISI Specification. This newly revised Section A4.1.2
is included in Appendix A for use in the United States.

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February 2002
A5

Load and Resistance Factor Design

The Section number was changed from A6 to A5.

A5.1

Design Basis
The Section number was changed from A6.1 to A5.1. Editorial revisions were also made in
this section.

A5.1.1 LRFD Requirements

The Section number was changed from A6.1.1 to A5.1.1 with a title change from LRFD
Strength Requirements to LRFD Requirements.
A5.1.2 Load Factors and Load Combinations for LRFD
This Section was completely rewritten by deferring loads and load combinations to applicable
codes and ASCE 7. It replaces the design requirements previously covered in Sections A6.1.2
and A6.1.3 of the 1996 AISI Specification. It is included in Appendix A for use in the United
States.
A9

B.

Referenced Documents
The first paragraph was revised with a reference to Appendix A for documents applicable to
the United States. ASCE 7, AISC ASD Specification, AISC LRFD Specification, AWS D1.398, AWS C1.1-66, and AWS C1.3-70 Standards were moved to Section A9a of Appendix A.
ASME B46.1-85 was added. All ASTM standards were updated. ASTM A1008 and A1011
Standards replaced the ASTM A570, A607, A611, and A715 Standards. ASTM A1003
Standard was added to the list.

ELEMENTS
B1.1(a) Maximum Flat-Width-to-Thickness Ratios
In Item (1), definitions of Is and Ia were added.
B1.1(b) Flange Curling
The footnote for flange curling was changed to a note in the text.
B2

Effective Widths of Stiffened Elements

In this Section, the term Load Capacity Determination was changed to Strength
Determination, and the term Deflection Determination was changed to Serviceability
Determination.

B2.1

Uniformly Compressed Stiffened Elements

Equation E2.1-4 for computing the slenderness factor was changed with an addition of
Equation E2.1-5 for Fcr . Minor editorial revision was made for the definition of f.

B2.3

Webs and other Stiffened Elements under Stress Gradient

A list of symbols and definitions were added to the first paragraph of this Section. The design
requirements were revised to adopt a two-part approach for the effective width of webs based
on the ratio of overall web width to overall flange width. The stress ratio is defined as an

CCFSS Tech Bulletin

February 2002

absolute value and some signs for were changed in several related equations.
B2.4

C-Section Webs with Holes under Stress Gradient

Condition d o / h < 0.7 was revised to d o / h 0 . 7.

B3

Effective Widths of Unstiffened Elements

In this Section, the term Load Capacity Determination was changed to Strength
Determination, and the term Deflection Determination was changed to Serviceability
Determination.

B4

Effective Widths of Elements with One Intermediate Stiffener or an Edge Stiffener

In this Section, the term Deflection Determination was changed to Serviceability
Determination.

B4.1

Uniformly Compressed Elements with One Intermediate Stiffener

The design requirements for the case of b o /t > S were changed to eliminate the discontinuity.
A new equation (Eq. B4.1-4) for determining n was added.

B4.2

Uniformly Compressed Elements with an Edge Stiffener

The limiting w/t was changed from S/3 to 0.328S. Design equations were changed for the
case of w/t > 0.328S by adopting an equation for n, which eliminated a discontinuity that
existed in the previous design expressions.

B5

Effective Widths of Stiffened Elements with Multiple Intermediate Stiffeners or Edge

Stiffened Elements with Intermediate Stiffeners
This Section was completely revised to reflect recent research findings for flexural members
with intermediate stiffeners in the compression flange. It includes two new subsections to
cover sub-element local buckling and distortional buckling. Section B5.1 deals with the
effective widths of uniformly compressed stiffened elements with multiple intermediate
stiffeners, while Section B5.2 deals with edge stiffened elements with intermediate stiffeners.
(Section B6 Stiffeners of the 1996 AISI Specification was changed to Section C3.6 of the
North American Specification. See Chapter C on Members)

C.

MEMBERS
C2

Tension Members
This Section was moved to Appendix A for use in the United States.

C3.1

Bending
The title of this Section was simplified. In the first paragraph, reference is made to Appendix
A for use in the United States. The footnote for torsional effects was added as the second
paragraph of this Section.

C3.1.1 Nominal Section Strength [Resistance]

In Subsection (b) for Procedure II, Condition (4) was revised to read The shear force does

CCFSS Tech Bulletin

February 2002

not exceed 0.35 Fy times the web area, ht, for ASD, and 0.60 Fy ht for LRFD.
C3.2.1 Lateral-Torsional Buckling Strength [Resistance] of Open Cross Section Members
The footnote for the applicability of design provisions was added as the first paragraph of this
Section.
In Subsection (a), Cb and CTF are not required to be unity (1.0) for members subject to combined
axial load and bending moment in the North American Specification.
In Subsection (b), Eq. C3.1.2.1-14 is now permitted for doubly-symmetric I-sections and
singly-symmetric C-sections. The unbraced length L in Eqs. C3.1, 2.1-14 and C3.1.2-15
was clarified as Ly.
C3.1.2.2 Lateral-Torsional Buckling Strength [Resistance]of Closed Box Members
The unbraced length L in Eq.C3.1.2.2-2 was clarified as Ly.
C3.1.4 Beams Having One Flange Fastened to a Standing Seam Roof System
This Section was moved to Appendix A for use in the United States.
C3.1.5 Strength [Resistance] of Standing Seam Roof Panel Systems
In the last line of this Section, the resistance factor was revised from 0.5 to 0.8 for the
number of physical test assemblies less than 3.
C3.2

Shear
The title of this Section was simplified.

C3.2.1 Shear Strength [Resistance] of Webs without Holes

The format for the nominal shear strength was revised to be Vn = AwFv. Equations are given
for Fv governed by shear yielding, inelastic shear buckling and elastic shear buckling. The
factor of safety for ASD was revised to 1.60 and the resistance factor for LRFD was changed
to 0.95 for all cases.
C3.2.2 Shear Strength [Resistance] of C-Section Webs with Holes
Condition d o / h < 0.7 was revised to d o /h 0.7
C3.3.1 ASD Method
For beams with unreinforced webs, the design provisions were revised to specify that the
required allowable flexural strength, M, and the required allowable shear strength, V, shall not
exceed M n / b and V n / v , respectively.
C3.3.2 LRFD and LSD Methods
For beams with unreinforced webs, the design provisions were revised to specify that the
required flexural strength [factored moment], Mu, and the required shear strength [factored
shear], Vu , shall not exceed b M n and v V n , respectively.
C3.4

Web Crippling
The title of this Section was simplified. This Section was completely revised to use a unified
web crippling strength equation with variable coefficients on the basis of the type of cross

CCFSS Tech Bulletin

February 2002

section and the fastened condition at support. The web crippling coefficients, factors
of safety for ASD, and resistance factors for LRFD are presented in five separate
tables for built-up sections, single web channel and C-sections, single web Zsections, single hat sections, and multi-web deck sections, either fastened or
unfastened to support.
C3.5.1 ASD Method
In Subsection (c), the interaction equation for the support point of two nested Zsections was modified according to the new web crippling equation. In addition, it
is specified that the moment, M, and the concentrated load or reaction, P, shall not
exceed M no / b and P n / w , respectively.
C3.5.2LRFD and LSD Methods
In subsection (c), the interaction equation for two nested Z-shapes was modified
according to the new web crippling equation. In addition, it is specified that the
moment, Mu, and the concentrated load or reaction, Pu, shall not exceed b M no and
w P n, respectively, for the LRFD method.
C3.6 Stiffeners
This Section was previously included in Chapter B of the 1996 AISI Specification
as Section B6. It was moved to Section C3.6 for the design of flexural members.
C3.6.3Non-Conforming Stiffeners
This Section was revised to permit the use of rational engineering analysis with
some minor changes on section numbers.
C4.1 Sections Not Subject to Torsional or Torsional-Flexural Buckling
The footnote for the effective length factor was moved to the text as a new note.
C4.2 Doubly or Singly-Symmetric Sections Subject to Torsional or Torsional-Flexural
Buckling
A new paragraph was added at the end of this Section for singly-symmetric
unstiffened angle sections, for which the effective area (Ae) at stress Fy is equal to
the full unreduced cross-sectional area (A).
C4.3 Point-Symmetric Sections
This is a new Section for the design of point-symmetric sections.
C4.4 Nonsymmetric Sections
This Section was renumbered from C4.3 in the 1996 AISI Specification to C4.4
in the North American Specification.
C4.5 Built-Up Members
This is a new Section for built-up members. It replaces Section D1.1(a) of the 1996
AISI Specification.

CCFSS Tech Bulletin

February 2002
C4.6

Compression Members Having One Flange Through-Fastened to Deck or Sheathing

This Section was renumbered from Section C4.4 of the 1996 AISI Specification to Section
C4.6 of the North American Specification. Minor revisions were made in conditions (5),
(6), and (8). The footnote for Condition (8) in the 1996 AISI Specification was added to the
text as a new Note.

C5.2.1ASD Method
In the first paragraph, an additional requirement was added to specify that each individual
ratio in Eqs. C5.2.1-1 and C5.2.1-3 shall not exceed unity.
For the definition of My , the design requirements for singly-symmetric unstiffened angle
sections were revised in the North American Specification.
C5.2.2 LRFD and LSD Methods
In the first paragraph, an additional requirement was added to specify that each individual
ratio in Eqs. C5.2.2-1 and C5.2.2-3 shall not exceed unity.
For the definition of Muy , the design requirements for singly-symmetric unstiffened angle
sections were revised in the North American Specification.

D.

C6

Closed Cylindrical Tubular Members

The term Cylindrical Tubular Members was changed to Closed Cylindrical Tubular
Members in the title and the text.

C6.1

Bending
Definitions of D and t were added.

C6.2

Compression
Equation C6.2-5 for determining Ae was simplified with the revision of Eq. C6.2-6 for
determining R. Definitions of D and t were added.

Structural Assemblies
D1.1

I-Sections Composed of Two C-Sections

In Subsection (a), new requirements for built-up compression members composed of two
C-sections are given in Section C4.5.
In Subsection (b), the equations for determining m (Eqs. D1.1-3 and D1.1-4 of the 1996
AISI Specification) and the definitions of wf, d, D, and Ix were moved to the Commentary.

D3.2

C-Section and Z-Section Beams

The footnote in the 1996 AISI Specification was added to the text as a new Note.

D3.2.2 Neither Flange Connected to Sheathing

The equation for determining K for Z-sections (Eq. D3.2.2-2) was revised from
K = I xy /I x to K = I xy /2I x . The direction of the applied brace force for Z-sections is
also specified in the new requirement.
Other editorial changes were also made in the text.

CCFSS Tech Bulletin

E.

February 2002

D4

Wall Studs and Wall Stud Assemblies

Minor editorial changes were made in the text. The limits for yield strength, section depth,
section thickness, overall length, and stud spacing previously included in Subsection (b)
were moved to Section D4.1.

D4.1

Compression
The title of this Section as simplified. Limits for using the equations provided in Conditions
(a), (b), and (c) of this Section were added from Section D4. Editorial revisions were made
for several symbols not previously defined in this Section.

D4.2

Bending
The title of this Section was simplified. The definitions of Mnxo and Mnyo were revised to
directly refer to Section C3.1.1.

Connections and Joints

E2

Welded Connections
This Section was revised by moving some of the design provisions to Section E2a of
Appendix A for use in the United States.

E2.1

Groove Welds in Butt Joints

For the ASD method, the factors of safety for tension, compression, and shear were reduced.

E2.2

Arc Spot Welds

All figures in the Specification use numbers at the end instead of letters

E2.2.1 Shear
Some factors of safety for ASD and resistance factors for LRFD were revised for Subsections
(a) and (b).
The definition of da for multiple sheets not more than four lapped sheets over a supporting
member was changed from (d - 2t) to (d - t).
For the ASD method, the factors of safety for Eq. E2.2.1-6a were revised.
Minor editorial revisions were also made.
E2.2.2 Tension
In the North American Specification, Eq. E2.2.2-2 was modified to replace Eqs. E2.2.2-2
and E2.2.23 of the 1996 AISI Specification. Different factors of safety and resistance
factor are used for applications other than panels and decks. A new limitation for the value
of t d a Fu was added.
E2.3

Arc Seam Welds

For the ASD method, the factor of safety was increased slightly. The definition of da was
revised for a double sheet in the North American Specification. All figures in the
Specification use numbers at the end instead of letters.

E2.4

Fillet Welds

CCFSS Tech Bulletin

February 2002

Several factors of safety and resistance factors were revised. This Section was revised to
require a weld strength check when the plate thickness is greater than 0.10 in. i.e., the thickness
limit of t > 0.15 in. was changed to t > 0.10 in. All figures in the Specification use numbers
at the end instead of letters.
E2.5

Flare Groove Welds

Several factors of safety and one resistance factor were revised. All figures in the Specification
use numbers at the end instead of letters. Thickness limit for weld strength check was revised
to t > 0.10 in.

E2.6

Resistance Welds
For the ASD method, the factor of safety was increased slightly. Equations E2.6-5 and E2.66 for the MKS unit were added.

E2.7

Fracture in Net Section of Members Other Than Flat Sheets (Shear Lag)
The title of this Section was changed from Shear Lag Effect in Welded Connections of
Members Other Than Flat Sheets.

E3

Bolted Connections
The design provisions for the thickness of the thinnest connected part exceeding 3/16 in., the
maximum size of holes and other requirements were moved to Section E3a of Appendix A for
use in the United States.

E3.1

Shear, Spacing and Edge Distance

This Section was moved to Appendix A for use in the United States. Minor editorial revisions
were made for spacing and edge distance.

E3.2

Fracture in Net Section (Shear Lag)

This Section was moved to Appendix A for use in the United States. The title of this Section
was changed from Shear Lag Effect in Bolted Connections.
In Subsection (1), the design provisions were revised to use the reduction equation of Ft only
for a single bolt or a single row of bolts perpendicular to the force. For multiple bolts in the
line parallel to the force, F t = F u . The definition of r was deleted and the definition of s
was revised.
In Subsection (2), the design provisions were simplified.

E3.3

Bearing
This Section was revised by including two subsections: E3.3.1 Strength without Consideration
of Bolt Hole Deformation and E3.3.2 Strength with Consideration of Bolt Hole Deformation.
In Section E3.3.1, the design format and tables for determining the bearing strength were
revised on the basis of the bearing factor, modification factor, and the ratio of bolt diameter to
member thickness, d/t. The factor of safety and resistance factor were also revised accordingly.
A variable was introduced in Eq. E3.3.2-1 to accommodate different units used.

E3.4

Shear and Tension in Bolts

This Section was moved to Appendix A for use in the United States.

CCFSS Tech Bulletin

February 2002

E4

Screw Connections
Editorial revisions were made in this Section. Definitions of new terms were added for dw ,
Pss , Ptx and t c .

E4.2

Minimum Edge and End Distances

The minimum distance from the center of a fastener to the edge of any part was revised from
3d to 1.5d. The nominal shear strength per screw is specified for the end distance parallel to
the force.

E4.3.1 Connection Shear Limited by Tilting and Bearing

The title of this Section was revised from Connection Shear.
E4.3.2 Connection Shear Limited by End Distance
This Section was completely revised. It was moved to Appendix A for use in the United
States.
E4.4

Tension
The sentence and shall be determined according to Section F1 was deleted.

E4.4.1 Pull-Out
The definition of tc was deleted.
E4.4.2 Pull-Over
Editorial revision was made for the definition of dw.
E4.4.3 Tension in Screws
This Section was revised by adding a new equation for calculating the nominal tensile strength
for screws.
E5

Rupture
The entire section including Subsections E5.1, E5.2, and E5.3 were moved to Appendix A
for use in the United States.

F1.1

Load and Resistance Factor Design and Limit States Design

Editorial revisions were made in the first paragraph with the update of several section numbers
in the text.
The footnote in the 1996 AISI Specification was added to the text as a Note.

F3.1

Full Section
Item (d) of this Section was revised to require one full section test be made from each master
coil for acceptance and control purposes.

F3.3

Virgin Steel
Minor editorial revisions were made in this Section.

February 2002

F.

CCFSS Tech Bulletin

Design of Cold-Formed Steel Structural Members and Connections for Cyclic Loading
(Fatigue)
This is a new chapter for fatigue design. It was developed on the basis of the available research
data on cold-formed steel members and the AISC provisions.
Appendix A: Provisions Applicable to the United States
This is a new Appendix. It contains Sections A1.1a, A2.2, A3.1, A4.1.2, A5.1.2, C2, C3.1.4, E2a,
E3a, E3.1, E3.2, E3.4, E4.3.2, and E5, which are applicable only to the United States.