Tensile Performance of Perforated IPE Connectors within Composite Beams

Abstract

This paper examines the performance of IPE perforated shear connectors, emphasizing their role in maintaining the structural integrity of composite beams. It focuses on inspecting the behavior of these connectors under pull-out forces to assess their resistance capabilities and conformity with Eurocode 4 guidelines. Pull-out tests were conducted to evaluate whether the perforated IPE connectors meet Eurocode 4's requirement of providing a minimum resistance equivalent to 10% of the shear strength. Simultaneously, the study explores two crucial parameters: hole shapes (encompassing circular and long cut holes) and the diameters of perforating steel rebar (6 mm and 8 mm) key outcomes center on comprehending load-separation curves, illustrating the connectors' performance across varied conditions. Additionally, a meticulous examination and analysis of failure modes were undertaken to interpret and derive meaningful insights from the results. Furthermore, the study employs finite element simulations using the 3D code Abaqus to analyze the behavior of IPE perforated connectors under pull-out conditions, particularly emphasizing the role of anti-uplift rebar passing through perforated holes. Remarkably, the findings conclusively affirm the effectiveness of IPE perforated connectors in withstanding pull-out forces, exceeding the prescribed 10% threshold of shear resistance under tensile stresses as mandated by Eurocode standards.