Definition of Criteria for Maximizing the Structural Performance of Steel Profiles for Cellular Beams via Monte Carlo Simulation

Resumo

Cellular beams (CB) differ from solid web beams (SWB) due to the openings in their web and exhibit unique resistance mechanisms, including complex internal forces such as normal forces, shear forces, and bending moments, all distributed in a peculiar manner across their sections. Their complex geometry causes the resistance mechanisms to depend on various parameters or geometric relationships, making the design process less intuitive compared to conventional beams. Furthermore, the critical section is not always related to the most heavily loaded section, contrary to the behavior observed in SWBs. To correlate the geometric characteristics of the profiles and the cutting parameters of the openings across various span ranges, a Monte Carlo simulation was carried out, allowing for the establishment of optimal ranges for input data and ranking of the most sensitive parameters. Among the insights obtained, the inadequacy of I-section profiles specified by ABNT standards stands out, as their characteristics negatively impact the structural efficiency of CBs, as well as counterintuitive behaviors related to the variation of section and web opening dimensions. The study culminated in the formulation of guidelines for solving design problems in CBs and resulted in solutions with lower steel consumption compared to conventional profiles. Based on the analyses performed, a catalog of custom welded I-section profiles was developed specifically for use in cellular beams.