Finite element analysis of lean duplex stainless steel perforated girders

Abstract

For the past fifteen years, the application of stainless steel in the construction industry and investigation into its structural capacity has been increasing. The relatively high initial cost of stainless steel led to the development of a new grade known as the lean duplex stainless steel. This grade maintains the favorable characteristics of stainless steel with a main advantage of having lower initial cost – this is mainly due to the lower nickel content. Research on the structural integrity of lean duplex stainless steel has been ongoing for the past few years but is rather limited. The aim of this research is to examine the behavior of lean duplex stainless steel perforated welded I sections. The perforations are of different sizes, shapes, and positions. A comprehensive numerical study has been carried out using the finite element software ABAQUS. The investigation evaluated the factors affecting the performance of the perforated girders while considering different lengths and position of stiffeners. It was shown that perforations decrease the structural capacity of girders when compared to those with no perforations. Several factors such as the influence of the aspect ratio, perforation shapes and the end post conditions were also studied. Finally, design recommendations were made.