Strengthening of shear and moments in continuous beams

Abstract EN

Existing structures are subjected to increasing loads.

They were often designed using Allowable Stress Design method (ASD).

In old industrial buildings, beam dimensions were selected compact by using either rolled steel sections, or built up profiles.

A direct design method is presented to strengthen such continuous beam panels above their plastic limit at different locations.

Shear yield strain is crucial in the analysis, which is considered by using a numerical solution, and then simplified formulae are presented.

The strengthening is based on attaching steel plates at the suitable locations.

The position of each plate and its reasonable extension is determined.

Material consumption and welding energy are kept as low as possible.

Results are compared with previous tests and numerical values.

Excessive strengthening is avoided.

The proposed method could be applied on beams with other dimensions and/or conditions.

The required precautions and restrictions are given.