Numerical comparison of two configurations of thin cold-formed U-shaped steel-encased concrete composite beams
Volume Title: ICASGE2025
Paper ID : 1052-ICASGE-FULL (R1)
Authors
1Structural Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tanta University
2Structural Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Tanta University, Egypt
Abstract
This paper numerically compares two configurations of thin cold-formed U-shaped steel-encased concrete composite beams. The first configuration, RCUCB, features a rebar truss stiffening the upper opening of the U-shaped steel section to prevent torsional buckling. The second, SUSCCB, integrates the steel plate’s top sections into the concrete flange, with composite action achieved through transverse reinforcement passing through holes in the encased steel plates. A validated 3D finite element (FE) model accurately predicts peak loads, load–deflection curves, and failure modes. Using this model, the study compares the flexural performance of both configurations and examines the impact of shear connector capacity on bending strength in RCUCB. Additionally, it investigates the effectiveness of anchor systems with thin, high-depth steel plates. Results indicate that SUSCCB outperforms RCUCB in flexural behavior. Enhancing shear connector capacity in RCUCB improves bending resistance until full composite action is achieved. Moreover, anchor systems effectively prevent buckling in thin, deep steel plates, enhancing structural capacity. The ultimate bending capacity is also analyzed using Eurocode 4 (EC4), and the proposed analytical model aligns well with numerical results.
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