An investigation of web crushing behaviour in thin-walled beams

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