An investigation of web crushing behaviour in thin-walled beams

An initial investigation of the collapse behaviour of webs of thin-walled b eams under concentrated loads applied through one or both flanges is carrie d out. The analysis methods given in some current design specifications wit h respect to web crushing are outlined and compared. Theoretical examinatio ns of the behaviour of channel sections under single or two flange loading are derived and compared with the predictions of different design specifica tions. The theoretical investigations make use of simple Energy Analysis as well as finite strip and finite element examinations. A design approach wh ich incorporates the European column curves is set out. (C) 1998 Elsevier S cience Ltd. All rights reserved.