Numerical Simulation of the Influence of Different Opening Parameters on the Flexural Performance of Fixed Open-Web Steel Beams

Abstract

Based on the ABAQUS finite element analysis software platform, this study investigated the effects of opening parameters, including end distance, opening rate, and opening distribution, on the flexural performance of fixed open-web steel beams. The results indicate that an open-web steel beam with fixed support exhibits a flexural shear failure mode, which initiates yielding at the hole corners in the flexural shear zone. As the load increases, the plastic zone progressively extends to the flange, ultimately forming a four-hinge plastic mechanism around the hole. Specifically, a mid-span hole reduces the flexural performance by approximately 10%, while an end hole reduces it by approximately 47%. It is recommended that mid-span openings with end distances no less than 1.75 times the beam height be prioritized in engineering design. Additionally, the flexural performance of fixed open-web steel beams decreases as the opening rate increases. Optimizing the opening geometry by reducing its length-toheight ratio under invariant opening ratio conditions provides a more than doubled flexural capacity gain, offering practical insights for beam design.OPEN ACCESS Received: 25/02/2025 Accepted: 24/03/2025 Published: 14/07/2025

Document