Engineering and Technology Journal

Abstract

In this study, a nonlinear three-dimensional finite element analysis has been
used to predict the load-deflection behavior of horizontally curved composite
beams of concrete slab and I-section steel beam with shear connectors using the
analysis system computer program (ANSYS V. 9.0 2004).
A comparison is made between the results obtained from the finite
element analysis and the available experimental results. The comparison shows
good agreement. The maximum difference in ultimate loads was (13.2%).
Parametric study was performed to study the influence of several important
parameters on the overall behavior of a horizontally curved composite beam.
These parameters include the curvature (L/R) of the beam, supports conditions
and concrete compressive strength. L/R has significant influence as more and
more twisting effects will be introduced