On Moment Capacity and Flexural Ductility in Doubly Symmetric Web-Tapered I-Girders

The present paper summarizes the results of a finite element based parametric study aimed at quantifying the response of web-tapered I-girders loaded to failure. The geometry of the tapered beams considered is of realistic dimensions vis-Ã -vis normally encountered rafter sections used in metal buildings manufactured in the U.S. In addition, a comparison of the observed girder response, and the response predicted using the web-tapered flexural provisions from Appendix F in the LRFD Specification (AISC, 1999) is undertaken. The validity of the finite element modeling techniques employed herein is demonstrated using the results from experimental tests available in the literature.