Mechanical Response and Failure Analysis of Stainless-Steel Beams Exposed to Elevated Temperatures

• Published in: ASM Science Journal
• Main Author: Hazizan N.A.; Wahid N.; Zakwan F.A.A.; Ismail R.; Hashim M.H.M.; Ahmad H.; Goh L.D.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Akademi Sains Malaysia 2024
• Online Access: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85214705550&doi=10.32802%2fASMSCJ.2023.1476&partnerID=40&md5=7d9bc3c80564c300c336f69f49f4733c

This research investigates the structural behaviour of stainless-steel beams (SSBs) when subjected to extreme temperatures, specifically in the context of fire-induced deformations. High temperatures, typical of fire occurrences, exert large thermal loads on SSBs, leading in material property changes that make the metal more brittle, stiffer, and brittle. The objective of this study is to investigate extensively the behaviour of SSBs under the combined impact of heat transfer and applied loads, with a focus on substantial deflections. To completely assess the performance of SSBs, we undertake parametric investigations and systematic research efforts. The initial phase comprises a thorough review of relevant data about the behaviour of SSBs at increased temperatures. Afterwards, a parametric study of the web section is conducted to determine the performance of the SSBs under exposure to fire and applied stresses. In order to ease the numerical research, the finite element (FE) program ABAQUS CAE is used to simulate stainless steel I-section beams of varying diameters subjected to realistic fire conditions according to the ISO 834 standard fire curve. The average discrepancy between numerical forecasts and experimental data for six separate models about the final temperature readings is 2.74 percent. Prior to actual collapse, the axial displacement of the SSBs decreases by around 7.5%, showing significant temperature influences on their strength. In addition, the axial deformation of the SSBs exhibits greater displacements in the web portion than in the flange section following fire exposure and loading. This discovery highlights the need to take into account the unique thermal expansion and stiffness characteristics of the web and flange components during fire occurrences. Utilising the finite element approach in ABAQUS reveals the resistance of SSBs to increased temperatures. The findings highlight the potential advantages of using stronger SSBs to maximise the structural response under fire conditions. This study gives useful insights into the thermal behaviour of SSBs and has important implications for building fire-resistant structures, boosting the fire safety of constructions, and enhancing their resistance against fire risks. © (2024), (Akademi Sains Malaysia). All rights reserved.