Resistance of Welded Aluminum Alloy Plate Girders to Shear and Patch Loading

Abstract

Aluminum alloys are used in a variety of structural engineering applications, such as transportable and lightweight bridges, due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and durability. However, the heat of welding may reduce their strength significantly and necessitate the inclusion of strength reduction factors in design calculations. Theoretical procedures for predicting ultimate shear and patch resistance, which include material strength reduction factors to allow for welding, are now incorporated in BS8118, the code of practice for aluminum structures, and EC9, the Eurocode of practice for aluminum structures. However, when compared with available test results, theoretical predictions in accordance with BS8118 and EC9 appear unduly conservative. Experimental and theoretical studies of the behavior and strength of welded aluminum alloy plate girders, subjected to shear and patch loading, are reviewed and discussed. Theoretical predictions of the ultimate resistance, based on modified and developed theories, are compared and show consistent and improved correlation with experimental results.