Full-scale tests on composite steel–concrete beams with steel trapezoidal decking: Fid-Bau Portal

Full-scale tests on composite steel–concrete beams with steel trapezoidal decking

Ranzi, G. / Bradford, M.A. / Ansourian, P. / Filonov, A. / Rasmussen, K.J.R. / Hogan, T.J. / Uy, B.

AbstractThis paper describes the detailed testing of two full-scale steel–concrete composite beams comprised of composite slabs with deep trapezoidal decking connected to universal beams by welded stud shear connectors. The ribs of the decking were orthogonal to the longitudinal axes of the steel beams. This situation exists in secondary beams in flooring systems of steel framed buildings, and beams with deep trapezoidal slabs of this type are economic since they are able to span large distances, with or without propping. Despite the popularity of these decks and many useful research contributions over several decades, there are some concerns related to the strength and ductility of the shear connection because of the large voids in the slab and the need to place the studs off-centre to circumvent welding them through the longitudinal stiffener in the rib. There is also significant disquiet as to the applicability of push test results on much smaller specimens to the design of full-scale beams. The experimental work in this paper therefore intends to provide benchmark data for the calibration of theoretical models and of design recommendations. The beams were 8 m long with low degrees of shear connection. The tests showed that both beams behaved in a very ductile fashion with the ultimate moment capacities being above those predicted from the Eurocode 4 guidelines.