Studying the web notch shape effect on shear load: Numerical analysis for steel beams

Abstract

The connections made for steel beams are used quite often, in which a part of the beam cross-section needs to be cut at the connection joint. There are many shapes in which the location of the cutting part of the web is formed, but this is done in a manner where previous studies or calculations have not been made and may cause an adverse effect on the section's resistance to stresses. For this reason, a finite element (FE) analysis was conducted on 34 models in this research, among which many variables and notched shapes were selected that could be implemented in the web cutting process. Some specimens were first compared that were used for studying in the experiments of the previous research. Great agreement and high accuracy were obtained in the use of FE numerical analysis in the modeling of this type of steel structural elements. The maximum load capacity, the distribution of normal stresses as well as the shear stresses at the notched zone were measured. From the study of the different variables, it was observed that the use of a quarter-circle notch was the best shape for locating the beam web cutting, as the increase of the load ratio reached 1.14 when compared to the right angle. The use of a half-circle notch, either from one or both sides of the beam web, negatively affects the web's resistance to stress. A quarter-circle notched from both sides must also be used to increase the load capacity if the flange is cut from both sides.