Light Steel Framing (LSF) systems have attracted increasing attention in recent years as one of the innovative construction systems due to their low weight, high construction speed, prefabrication capability, and satisfactory structural performance. Despite these advantages, the presence of steel members with high thermal conductivity within the building envelope can result in thermal bridging, increased heat transfer, reduced thermal resistance of the building envelope, and ultimately higher energy consumption. Therefore, an accurate assessment of the thermal behavior of these structures and the development of effective strategies to mitigate the effects of thermal bridging are of significant importance for improving the energy performance of buildings.
This review article aims to examine previous studies on the numerical analysis of heat transfer and methods for reducing thermal bridging in Light Steel Framing systems. Relevant research employing numerical approaches, including the Finite Element Method (FEM), two-dimensional and three-dimensional thermal modeling, and specialized software such as THERM, ANSYS, and COMSOL, is reviewed. In addition, the effects of parameters such as the geometry of steel studs, insulation type and thickness, continuous thermal insulation layers, advanced insulation materials, and the use of thermal break elements on the thermal performance of LSF systems are analyzed.
The reviewed studies indicate that thermal bridges caused by steel members are among the most significant factors responsible for reducing the thermal performance of LSF wall assemblies. The use of continuous external thermal insulation, modification and optimization of steel section design, application of low-thermal-conductivity materials, and optimization of construction details can substantially reduce heat transfer. Furthermore, numerical analyses have been recognized as effective tools for predicting thermal behavior and optimizing the design of building envelopes prior to construction. Finally, this review summarizes the existing research findings and identifies current research gaps and future directions for the development of LSF systems with enhanced thermal efficiency.