Finite Element Modelling of Steel Beams with Web Openings

摘要

Height limitations are not uncommon in multi-storey buildings due to economic requirements and esthetical considerations. Substantial spaces are normally required to enable the passage of large pipes and ducts beneath steel beams leading to uneconomic floor heights. The most adopted solution for this issue is the use of steel beam web openings to provide the required space for services. These openings could lead to a significant decrease of the beam load carrying capacity depending on the adopted openings shape, size and location. These aspects motivated the present study based on FE simulations calibrated against numerical and test results. The results accuracy enabled a comprehensive parametric analysis of beams with web openings to be made focused on the profile size, web opening location, among others. The study also investigated the efficiency of longitudinal stiffeners welded at the opening region and benefits of using an adequate edge concordance radius in beams with rectangular and square openings. The obtained results showed the need of using welded longitudinal stiffeners in order to increase the beams ultimate load carrying capacity. This adoption can double or even triple the ultimate load of beams with rectangular and square opening heights equal to 0.75 H, respectively.