Finite Element Modeling and Validation of Concrete-Filled Steel Tubes Under Bending: Integration with Experimental and Theoretical Analyses
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This paper aims to develop and validate a parametric finite element simulation model capable of predicting the behavior of Concrete-Filled Steel Tubes (CFST) under bending. The developed model is intended to serve as a new tool for the ongoing research initiative at UPC, which investigates this technology. The model utilizes the software ANSYS Mechanical APDL, and the simulation results are validated against experimental data from three 4-point monotonic bending tests of CFST samples. These experimental tests have been conducted as part of the research project STCC SIFECAT: IU68009746, funded by the European Regional Development Funds (ERDF) through the Agència de Gestió d'Ajuts Universitaris i de Recerca (AGAUR) - Generalitat de Catalunya. The experimental data are analysed and compared with the simulation results, which are tuned and iteratively improved until validated for the empirically tested specimens. The material models consist of elastic behavior with linear strain hardening for steel and the Menetrey-William model for concrete. Additionally, the empirical and simulation results are compared with a theoretical analysis developed from the principles of Strength of Materials. Finally, the theoretical, empirical, and simulation results provide insights into potential improvements to the finite element model and the optimal future course of action for this study.