PARAMETRIC STUDIES ON THE COMPONENT-BASED APPROACH TO MODELLING BEAM BOTTOM FLANGE BUCKLING AT ELEVATED TEMPERATURES

Abstract

In this study, an analytical model of the combination of beam-web shear buckling and bottom-flange buckling at elevated temperatures has been introduced. This analytical model is able to track the force-deflection path during post-buckling. A range of 3D finite element models has been created using the ABAQUS software. Comparisons have been carried out between the proposed analytical model, finite element modelling and an existing theoretical model by Dharma (2007). Comparisons indicate that the proposed method is able to provide accurate predictions for Class 1 and Class 2 beams, and performs better than the existing Dharma model, especially for beams with high flange-to-web thickness ratios. A component-based model has been created on the basis of the analytical model, and will in due course be implemented in the software Vulcan for global structural fire analysis.