Rotational capacity of aluminum beams under moment gradient. II: Numericalsimulations

An investigation into the feasibility of applying the finite-element method as a tool for cross-sectional classification for structural codes is carri ed out. A numerical model of rotational capacity of aluminum beams is estab lished using the nonlinear implicit code given in the ABAQUS/Standard Theor y Manual. The performance of the model is compared with experimental result s presented in the companion paper in this issue. A sensitivity study is ca rried out in order to establish the sensitivity of the predicted results to model parameters that are not well defined at different section slendernes s levels. The results obtained compare well with the experiments in that di screpancies between the experimental and numerical models have a limited ef fect on the results. Furthermore, the results show clearly that the finite- element model can be used to predict the load-deflection behavior under loc al buckling of compact aluminum beams, provided that the plastic anisotropy and the uniaxial stress-strain behavior of the material is well described. The validated model provides a basis for future parametric studies aimed a t an improved understanding of the inelastic behavior of aluminum beams and improved cross-sectional classification in structural design codes.