Thermal efficiency analysis of slotted steel studs in double leaf partition walls using FEM and experimental tests

Thermal efficiency of buildings is a fundamental factor towards a sustainable future; this contribution considers thermally efficient slot configurations in studs to be used in a double leaf wall and investigates its effects on the structural behaviour of the wall. The study introduces a 3D finite element model to predict the thermal and structural responses of a stud based double leaf wall system. This study is motivated by the necessity to develop energy efficient light weight building structures which are both affordable and sustainable. The prediction of structural and thermal behaviour of plasterboard partitions with studs is still a challenging problem. Various tests to study the heat transfer and structural responses of steel-stud based double leaf walls were modelled in compliance with BSENISO 6946, 12667, and BS5234. In this research, the 3D Finite Element Method (FEM) is used to tackle an otherwise mathematically complex problem. The validity of the finite element method results is assessed by comparing them with experimental data from tests carried out in a certified laboratory by the British Board of Agrément (BBA). The study has identified an effective slot configuration, which can reduce the heat transfer of a double leaf wall by up to 21.9%. The effects of using the proposed slot configuration on the structural response of the wall were also investigated