Buckling analysis of plate girder with trapezoid web subjected to shear loading

Abstract

Plate girder structure, which is constructed from welded steel plate, is well recognized. Economical design of girders and beams normally requires thin webs. But if the web is extremely thin the problem of plate buckling may arise. Possible ways to reduce this risk consist of using thicker plates, web stiffeners or strengthening the web by making it corrugation. The conventional provision of stiffeners to allow the use of thin webs has two disadvantages, i.e. high fabrication cost and a possible reduced life due to fatigue cracking that may initiate at them stiffener weld. The use of corrugated plates (Fig. 1.1) to replace the flat stiffened plates as the web can eliminate both disadvantages. The uses of corrugated webs have been increasingly used in many diverse engineering structures from structural engineering to aerospace and marine engineering. The corrugation of the webs acts as transverse stiffeners that allows for the use of thin plates. Because of the high slenderness ratio, web stability against shear buckling is of prime importance.