Thesis (M.S.)--Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 1993. / Vita. Abstract. Includes bibliographical references (leaf 73). Also available via the Internet.

The wider use of cold-formed steel framing is hindered by the lack of generic sections. This study puts forth an effort to develop a performance section designation code without specifying the geometry of the sections. A PC-based program to analyze C-section was developed and used to produce typical Performance Section Tables for both wall studs and joists. For curtain walls the <i>Uniform Lateral Load Capacity Tables</i> and for bearing walls the <i>Axial Load with Specified Lateral Load Tables</i>, the <i>Strong Axis Axial Load Capacity Charts</i>, and the <i>Weak Axis and Torsional Axial Load Capacity Charts</i> were developed. The typical design aids for roof/floor joists include the <i>Uniform Load Capacity Tables</i> for single and two continuous spans, the <i>Moment-Shear Interaction Capacity Charts</i>, and the <i>Web Crippling Capacity Tables</i>. Design examples are provided to illustrate the usage of the above tables and charts. / Master of Science