Finite element analysis for flexural behaviours of SCS sandwich beams with novel enhanced C-channel connectors

Abstract

This paper developed a new type of steel-concrete-steel sandwich beam with enhanced C-channel connectors (SCSSB-ECs). Then, a 3D nonlinear finite element model (NFEM) was developed that considered nonlinearities of geometry and materials, as well as complex interactions between the enhanced C-channels (ECs) and concrete core. Validations of finite element (FE) simulations against eight test results proved that the developed NFEM well predicted the ultimate strength behaviour of SCSSB-ECs. A 39-case parametric study program was then carried out for in-depth understanding of influences of different parameters that included faceplate thickness, spacing of ECs, length of C-channels in ECs, installation direction of C-channel, shear span ratio, and strength of concrete core. The FE parametric studies show that all SCSSB-ECs exhibit a ductile flexural failure mode and a four-stage working mechanism. Influences of the studied parameters on ultimate strength behaviour of SCSSB-ECs were reported, analysed and compared. They showed that plate thickness exhibited the most significant influence, the concrete strength and shear span ratio exhibit intermediate influences, and spacing of ECs, length of C-channels in ECs, and installation direction of C-channels exhibit marginal influences on the ultimate strength behaviours of SCSSB-ECs.