Lateral-torsional buckling resistance of coped beams

The lateral-torsional buckling resistance of beams depends on the support conditions. In floor structures for buildings coped beams are often used. A numerical model was developed to investigate the influence of copes on the lateral buckling resistance. This model is described in a companion paper [Maljaars J, Stark JWB, Steenbergen HMGM, Abspoel R. Development and validation of a numerical model for buckling of coped beams. Journal of Constructional Steel Research 2005;61(11):1576-93]. In this paper results of a parameter study carried out with the numerical model are presented. Based on these results recommendations for design rules are given. The study is restricted to (coped) beams with end plates.