Flexural Behavior of Rectangular Double Hollow Flange Cold-Formed Steel I-beam

Abstract

This research experimentally investigates the flexural behavior of rectangular hollow flange cold-formed steel I-beam (RHFCFSIB) under two concentrated loads at the same distance from the support. All specimens were at a constant clear span of (L=1500mm), a constant beam specifications (t=4mm) web, flange thickness (h=300mm) for beam′s depth, and flange width of (bf=150mm). The connecting distance between the bolts, i.e., connects the web to the flanges, was (L/6), and eight stiffeners for each beam were placed under the load bearing points and at the support points on each side. The experimental program included assembling the parts to make beams and testing four specimens under two-point loads. The major parameters adopted in the current research included the flange depth, i.e., hf=30,60,90, and 120mm. The results showed that the beam with a flange depth of 30 mm had a higher ultimate load than other beams; however, it was the highest beam deflection. The beam with a flange depth of 120mm was the best section as a flexural member. The ultimate capacity of this beam increased by 15.34% and 6.4% compared to beams with flange depths of 60mm and 90mm and decreased by 12.9% compared to a beam with a flange depth of 30 mm. The maximum deflection at beam mid-span with a flange depth of 120 mm decreased by 53.8%, 44%, and 19.94% compared to beams with flange depths of 30 mm, 60mm, and 90mm, respectively. Therefore, the flange depth significantly influenced the flexural behavior by increasing the flange depth. Also, the ultimate capacity increased, and the deflection was reduced. The main conclusions drawn from the study were discussed and summarized. The research showed that the Hollow flanged sections gave the best results for flexural behavior.