Experimental investigation on the new-type outer-plated steel-concrete continuous composite beams

Static load tests are conducted for two outer-plated steel-concrete continuous composite beams. Performance of the tested beams, including the load-deflection curve, load-strain curve, load-moment curve, plastic-hinge region and the crack of concrete flange of specimens, is analyzed. The test results indicate that effective cooperation can be achieved by the shear connector between the concrete part and the outer-plated steel beam; the composite beams have good overall performance. The concrete filling inside the U-shaped steel beam enhances the global and local stability of the outer-plated steel beam. At the bearing capacity limit state, the plastic strain on sections of both the negative and positive maximum moment develops fully so that ideal plastic hinges are formed relatively. At the serviceability limit state, the deformation and the crack width of continuous composite beams can be controlled effectively. © (2011) Trans Tech Publications.