Design of I Beams and Deck Profiles under Concentrated Loading

Abstract

This paper presents the results of an investigation into the behavior of I beams and deck profiles under concentrated loading in the beam’s transverse direction. The primary objective of the investigation was to provide information relevant to the current development of Eurocode 9 for aluminum structures. The rules in Eurocode 3 for steel beams were taken as a starting point for the study. A large number of numerical simulations were carried out using validated LS-DYNA finite element models in order to assess the accuracy of the given design model. The finite element models were validated against previously obtained experimental data for beams of AA6082-T6 extrusions from an experimental program designed to minimize experimental uncertainties. Modeling aspects for both geometry and material are discussed. The present study provides data for the effect of variations in yield stress, strain hardening, profile depth, web thickness, flange width, and thickness, as well as loading area, beam length, and beam overhang. The paper concludes with suggestions for improvement in the design models.