Research on seismic performance of corrugated web rigid structures

Abstract

Corrugated web H-beam refers to a steel beam with a wavy shape along its length, which is extensively utilized in various parts of building structures such as beams, columns, and walls. It serves the purpose of connection and support, while the corrugated or folded design enhances the shear resistance and out-of-plane stiffness of the web to some extent. However, despite their advantages including high strength, stiffness, and lightweight construction, relevant regulations stipulate that these members can only be used in lower-intensity applications or higher-intensity scenarios if specific conditions are met. One crucial condition is that the ratio between the design value of axial force subjected to seismic action and the product of the member's flange section area and steel's tensile strength should not exceed 0.4. In this study, we aim to further investigate the seismic characteristics and applicable intensity of corrugated steel structures under earthquakes through large-scale finite element ABAQUS simulations. We will observe dynamic characteristics and failure modes of corrugated rigid frame structures using elastic-plastic time-history analysis methods as well as examine plastic deformation features of steel beam members under low cyclic loads via hysteretic analysis methods. The findings demonstrate that when properly designed with reasonable beam spans, corrugated web rigid frame structures can still be employed in high-intensity areas above 7 degrees even when subjected to an axial compression ratio up to 0.5.

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