Numerical analysis and design of composite beams with shear connectors of realistic deformation characteristics

In this paper, a research and development project is reported which aims to develop numerical analysis and design model for practical design of composite beams in building construction. In order to develop numerical analysis and design models for composite beams with shear connectors of realistic deformation characteristics, two dimensional non-linear finite element models are established. Shear connectors are modelled as a series of horizontal and vertical springs along the interfaces between the concrete flanges and the steel sections, and non-linear load slippage curves representing realistic deformation characteristics are readily incorporated. After careful calibration against test data, finite element studies of simply supported composite beams under sagging and hogging moments are described. It is demonstrated that the numerical results compare well with test data in terms of various structural characteristics along the entire deformation ranges. Hence, the proposed numerical analysis and design models are considered to be simple and yet effective for composite beams with practical geometrical dimensions and arrangements. Structural engineers are strongly encouraged to employ the models in their practical work to exploit the full advantages offered by composite construction.