Stability analysis of light gauge steel members using the finite element method and the generalized beam theory

Jiang, C

Abstract

In this thesis a finite element programme for material and geometric nonlinear analysis, has been modified with pre- and post-data processing and eigenvalue solution. More efficient methods to solve elastic and inelastic eigenvalue and eigenvectors have been developed to deal with stability problems in structures with arbitrary shape, irregular stiffness, loads and boundary conditions. The Generalized Beam Theory (GBT) with the facilities of elastic spring restraints, buckling under coupled loads, different load locations has been developed and programmed by the author. It has been applied to reveal the basic behaviour and the interaction between the modes of light gauge steel members. It has been found that the AISI design approach with elastic bucking stresses obtained using GBT can be used to correctly predict the strength of compression thin-walled columns. Three different types of widely used light gauge steel members, namely rack columns, purlins and decks, have been analyzed using both FEM and GBT. The comparison of results from the numerical analyses and comprehensive tests agrees well. The author has risen to the challenge of complicated buckling problems and a pseudo-plastic design procedure for a continuous purlins and roof decks has been established in order to make the best us of the materials. Through the highly complex analyses, some important conclusions for composite deck profiles in the wet concrete stage have been obtained. The ECCS and AISI design approaches for bending have been found to be conservative when the deck is subject to plastic buckling or strength failure. The calculation of the ultimate web crippling load without consideration of bending moment is awkward and further light is shed on this topical problem. The influence of dimples in reducing the deck bending resistance mainly depends on the flange slenderness

Citation

Jiang, C. Stability analysis of light gauge steel members using the finite element method and the generalized beam theory. (Thesis). University of Salford

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Jul 14, 2017
• Publisher URL: http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.238755
• Related Public URLs: http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.238755
• Award Date: Apr 1, 1994