Partial-interaction analysis of composite beams with profiled sheeting and non-welded shear connectors

Abstract

Following a brief review of the basis of the formula which determines the strength of shear connectors for composite beams, shear-connector strength is examined when profiled sheeting is used. New non-welded connectors have been tested using composite beams and push-out specimens, with and without profiled sheeting. The expression which determines strength reduction due to the presence of sheeting is valid for these new connectors provided that they are placed correctly, thereby ensuring ductility. The second part of the paper considers partial-interaction analysis of simply supported composite beams. The model proposed by Eurocode 4 is compared with an analysis of an equivalent section providing full interaction, with a more precise numerical analysis and with test results of composite beams employing non-welded connectors. It is concluded that if the connectors are sufficiently ductile, the minimum allowable degree of partial shear connection can be lowered to 25% from 50% (of full connection) without risk of connector failure for beams where connection is required to reduce deflections.