Structural behavior of sigma‐type thin‐walled cold‐formed steel beams reinforced with CFRP textile

Abstract

The purpose of the research presented in this article was to verify the advanced numerical model. The model was made in ABAQUS software using the finite element method (FEM). The verification consisted of comparing the force‐displacement relationship for the numerical model and results from full‐scale laboratory tests. The research conducted concerns the strengthening of thin‐walled cold‐formed steel sigma beams with CFRP mats. The originality of the proposed strengthening method lies in the fact that the mats are bonded across the cross‐section to form a segmental closed cross‐section. Full‐scale laboratory tests were conducted on three Σ200×70×2 beams subjected to four‐point bending. SikaWrap 230 C CFRP mats and SikaDur 330 adhesive were used to reinforce the beams. The mats were applied to the edge bends of the beams at a width of 300 mm. It was stated that the current numerical model, despite its high degree of sophistication, does not fully meet the conditions obtained in the laboratory.