Patch Loading Resistance of Stainless Steel Corrugated Web Girders
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Nowadays, the use of stainless steel in construction is becoming more popular following sustainable and aesthetic criteria. An increasing number of research projects towards the understanding of the behaviour of stainless-steel components has allowed a more rational and economical use of this material. In this paper, the structural behaviour of stainless steel corrugated web girders subjected to patch loading is investigated. A nonlinear finite element model is developed using the finite element method, then a geometrically and materially nonlinear analysis with imperfections included (GMNIA) is conducted. At first, the numerical model is validated against experimental results found in the literature. Then, a parametric study is performed considering the loading length and the flange width. The results demonstrated the contributions of the loaded flange through the development of plastic hinges, and of the developed length of the corrugated web to the resistance to patch loading of stainless steel corrugated web girders.