Shear behaviour of stiffened hollow glulam beams: Experiments, analytical model, and finite element analysis

Abstract

Owing to their good mechanical properties and excellent seismic performance, among other advantages, glulam beams have widely been employed in architectural engineering. However, existing studies on the mechanical properties of glulam beams have mainly focused on their bending behaviours rather than their shear performance. Additionally, more comprehensive theoretical research on the shear performance of components with different section forms is essential. To address these issues and with the aim of investigating glulam components, this work developed a stiffened hollow glulam beam (SHGB) with a rectangular cross-section. By analysing the influences of the shear-span ratio, web thickness, and stiffening plate spacing on the shear properties of the SHGB, a theoretical calculation formula for the shear capacity and shear stiffness was established; this formula was then verified via finite element analyses. Based on the results, the SHGBs featured excellent bearing capacity and ductility, and also showed potential for reducing material consumption, while ensuring the desired mechanical properties. Notably, their stiffness increased with an increase in the web thickness or a decrease in the stiffening plate spacing. These results are expected to serve as a theoretical reference for similar components.