Finite element analysis of local shear buckling in corrugated web beams

Overall, it was found that the value of kL lies between 5.34 and 8.98. This corresponds to panel boundary conditions that are between simply supported and clamped. The analysis results revealed that kL increases with stockier panels (large panel width to height ratio) but decreases with thicker webs. When the panel width was decreased, local shear buckling occurred at larger stress values. Similar results were observed when the web height was decreased and the panel thickness was increased. These results are consistent with plate buckling theory. Finally, based on these findings an equation to approximate the local shear buckling coefficient in corrugated web beams is recommended.