Simply supported built-up I-beam optimization comparison

Abstract

The simply supported beams are commonly used in practice. They present many advantages in design as well as in fabrication and erection. Because the moment of the beam is not constant along its length, the section needs to vary to use the least amount of raw material. Various optimization methods have been proposed, including web trimming, reducing the width of flanges, or changing the flange thickness. In terms of fabrication and installation, it is preferable to keep the beam height and the flange thickness unchanged, making the second solution the most popular. Previous studies have only discussed the flange-stepped solution. Thus, this article will focus on tapering the beam flange by investigating the optimal parameters in terms of the beam weight. The new formulas to determine these optimal parameters will be proposed. The formulas are then used to calculate the material saved by the method. The outcomes are next compared to those of other optimization methods. The result shows that flange-tapered is the most efficient solution.