Experimental-Theoretical Investigation of the Strength and Deformability of Full-Scale Second-Generation Profiled Sheeting Samples

Steel trapezoidal profiled sheeting (STPS) is widely used in the construction industry. It is often viewed not as a structural element but as a material with its own properties, similar to bricks or masonry blocks. Consequently, to determine the load-bearing capacity and deformability of STPS, engineers most often rely on tables developed at the request of manufacturers. In Europe, these tables are compiled according to the EN 1993-1-3 methodology. However, there is a notable lack of studies comparing the results of theoretical calculations and manufacturer-provided data with the outcomes of experimental tests on full-scale profiled sheeting samples. For this reason, the authors conducted a study of 12 full-scale specimens of second-generation trapezoidal sheeting. The samples were tested under a two-span scheme, with deflections measured at the midpoint of each span and settlement of the sheeting at the supports. The study found that half the specimens showed higher deformability in the elastic stage than predicted, with differences of 16% to 105% based on span length and sheet thickness. For 11 out of 12 tested specimens, the onset of plastic deformations occurred before the samples reached their theoretical load-bearing capacity. The main novelty is identifying differences between Eurocode calculations and experimental results, showing higher deflections and earlier plastic deformations in tests. These full-scale STPS results offer both scientific and practical value.