Structural Analysis of Continuous I Beam of Steel with Crack Using Finite Element Simulation

Abstract

The statically indeterminate beam that is supported by three or more supports and at least one support that develops a reaction along the beam axis is known as a continuous beam. This type of beam is used in a large variety of structures as they show better resistance to seismic loads and lower deformity. However, due to the decay of steel or the increase of stresses, sometimes surface or sub-surface fissures develop in the material which is known as cracks. Because of the cracks in a structure, it may be vulnerable and start to age rapidly, which will eventually lead the structure to collapse. In this study, Abaqus CAE, a widely operated commercial software is used to simulate the cracks in a continuous I beam by the Finite Element Method. The surrounding crack zone is meshed with a smaller area due to its sensitiveness. Initially, suitable steel is selected among the major types of steel by evaluating their stress-strain curve. Then a continuous I beam of that steel with crack is simulated and the effect of the crack on the stresses is analyzed. The crack is safer when it forms on the part of the structure that is over-support. The risk of failure of a structure increases with the increasing distance of the crack from support. The greater crack depth poses a greater risk to the structure on the other hand increasing crack width has less effect on the stability of the structure