Large-Scale Lateral--Torsional Buckling Tests of Welded Girders

Currently, the Canadian steel design standard, CAN/CSA S16-14, prescribes unified design equations for predicting lateral--torsional buckling that do not distinguish between rolled and welded sections. However, residual stresses present in welded sections can create unfavourable conditions that may reduce their resistance to lateral--torsional buckling. Recent numerical studies reinforce this notion and have indicated that the current design equations to determine lateral-- torsional buckling resistance may be unconservative for welded girders, particularly in the inelastic range. Despite the numerical evidence, there is a paucity in up-to-date physical testing of welded girders fabricated with modern processes, which forms a substantial gap when concluding the adequacy of CSA S16-14. This paper discusses the lateral--torsional buckling physical testing program being undertaken at the University of Alberta Steel Centre. Development of the unique girder-stability test-bed is described and preliminary results of the first large-scale specimen, 9.75 m (32 ft) in length and with laterally and torsionally pinned end conditions, are presented.

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