Design recommendations for stainless steel I-sections under concentrated transverse loading

Abstract

Recent investigations have highlighted the need for improved provisions for determining the resistance of stainless steel I-sections under concentrated transverse loading. Such provisions, which reflect the particular characteristics of the material, have been developed and are described herein. A review of the existing European design formulae for members under concentrated transverse loading is firstly presented. Then a series of parametric studies, based on validated finite element models are described covering I-sections with a range of web slenderness values and different stainless steel grades. On the basis of the numerical results, together with existing experimental data, revised design equations are presented and assessed through reliability analysis performed in accordance with Annex D of EN 1990. The new provisions yield enhanced ultimate load predictions and are expected to be included in the next revision of EN 1993-1-4.