Experimental and numerical analysis of composite steel and concrete trusses

Abstract In the present work, two composite trusses formed by tubular shapes supporting a concrete slab were evaluated. Based on analytical formulation related to the problem, according to recommendations of standards, numerical analyses were performed, with models created using the software Ansys, and an experimental analysis with full-scale tests. Good agreement between the three analysis types was observed. A possible shear connection failure in one truss was observed. With a change in the second truss's connector length, an increase in the structure's strength and rigidity was achieved. In this study, because the shear connectors were directly welded on the upper chord wall, local effects with localized plastifications were evidenced.