Abstract :
The primary objective of this paper is concerned with the study of nonlinear behavior of horizontally curved
steel I-beams. Non-linear analysis of single span curved steel beam is done using finite element modeling in ANSYS
software. Parametric studies are carried out where the variables include the radius of curvature to span ratio (R/L),
width to flange thickness (B/tf) and depth to flange width (D/tw). Ultimate load carrying capacity, flexural behavior
for different radii of curvature to span ratio with varying width to flange thickness and depth to web thickness are
investigated. They are having transverse actions that are perpendicular to its plane of curvature. Vertically curved
beams like arches which are having loading actions in their plane are not considered in the study. The load which is
vertical produces vertical bending in horizontally curved beam and thereby produces twist rotations and vertical
displacements. In the construction of modern highway bridges and major buildings, horizontally curved steel beams
are commonly used.
Keyword :
Horizontally curved beams, nonlinear analysis, finite element analysis, ANSYS.