Simulations of mechanical performance of pultruded I-beams with various flange-web conjunctions

Flange-web conjunction of pultruded I-beams has a significant effect on the ir ultimate strength and other properties. It is important to understand an d predict the behaviour of pultruded I-beams with various flange-web connec tions. This article presents the simulations of mechanical performance of p ultruded I-beams with various flange-web connections using finite element a nalysis. The flange-web conjunctions are parameterised by the radius of the transition fillet between flanges and web and the mechanical properties of the composite filling the connection area. A flange-web conjunction enhanc ed by strips is also considered. The variations in stiffness, maximum compr essive and tensile stresses and the critical buckling load of the beams wit h various flange-web connections are evaluated. The results show an effecti ve approach to improve the flange-web connection. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.