Channel shear connectors in composite beams: Push-out tests

This paper briefly summarizes the results of an experimental research program involving the testing of push-out specimens with channel shear connectors. The test program consisted of three series, each with twelve push-out specimens. In each series, six specimens had solid concrete slabs and the other six specimens had concrete slabs incorporating wide-rib profiled metal deck with ribs parallel to the beam. The test parameters included the compressive strength of concrete, length and web thickness of the channel shear connector. The test results showed that, for a given length of channel, the concrete strength dictates the failure mode. In specimens with higher strength concrete, failure was caused by the fracture of the channel web. Crushing of the concrete adjacent to the channel web was the observed mode of failure in specimens with solid slabs when lower strength concrete was used. In most of the specimens with metal deck slabs, a concrete shear plane type of failure was observed.