Numerical study on various steel stiffener angles to reinforce half-loaded flat slabs

Rubaanantan, Rajoo (2024) Numerical study on various steel stiffener angles to reinforce half-loaded flat slabs. Master dissertation/thesis, UTAR.

Preview

PDF Download (1531Kb) | Preview

Abstract

The study addresses the challenges in creating an accurate ABAQUS model for estimating punching shear capacity, highlighting the lack of necessary historical data and a gap in research on the impact of varying steel stiffener angles in half�loaded flat slabs. With a predominant focus on a 45-degree angle in previous studies, there is a compelling need for clear guidelines in determining optimal dimensions for steel stiffeners, prompting a comprehensive exploration. To tackle this problem, this study includes developing a numerical model based on historical results, evaluating the influence of different steel stiffener angles using ABAQUS simulations, and identifying suitable dimensions. The methodology involves modeling two control flat slabs (1600mm x 1600mm x 100mm) from historical work to serve as a reference. Additionally, five specimens, each featuring stiffeners with various vertical plate angles, are modeled. Each stiffener maintains a constant length and thickness of 200mm and 6mm, respectively, with varying height to accommodate different angles. The study assesses the influence of stiffeners with various angles on ultimate punching load, deflection, cracking pattern, stress, and damage. The findings indicate that variations among different stiffener plate angles have a less significant impact on deflection, ranging between 20mm and 23mm, and ultimate punching load, ranging between 163.5kN and 165kN. The nearly significant results may be attributed to variances in material properties, boundary conditions, modeling simplifications, and interactions between structural elements. Acknowledging limitations, the study notes the absence of detailed information in historical works, leading to assumptions about material properties that may introduce uncertainties. The chosen tie constraint technique for stiffener installation, preferred for ease of analysis and result interpretation due to material constraints, may deviate from the effectiveness demonstrated by steel bolts in prior research. The study refrains from exploring site-specific considerations such as soil conditions and seismic factors, recognizing their importance in practical applications but acknowledging that these aspects fall beyond the scope of the current research.

Actions (login required)