Cold-formed steel sections with web openings subjected to web crippling under two-flange loading conditions—part I: Tests and finite element analysis

The results of 82 web crippling tests are presented, with 20 tests conducted on channel sections without web openings and 62 tests conducted on channel sections with web openings. The tests consider both end-two-flange and interior-two-flange loading conditions. In the case of the tests with web openings, the hole was located directly under the concentrated load. The concentrated load was applied through bearing plates; the effect of different bearing lengths is investigated. In addition, the cases of both flanges fastened and unfastened to the support is considered. A non-linear elasto-plastic finite element model is described, and the results compared against the laboratory test results; a good agreement was obtained in terms of both strength and failure modes.

► Web crippling tests of cold-formed channel section with web openings under two-flange loading conditions.
► Web openings located directly under the concentrated load.
► Flanges fastened and unfastened to the support have been considered.
► Non-linear finite element models developed.
► Finite element models verified against experimental test results.