Finite element modeling of rolled steel shapes subjected to weak axis bending

Point bending is often used for cambering and curving structural steel girders. An analytical solution, applicable in the elasto-plastic range only, that relates applied loads to the desired curve was recently developed for inducing horizontal curves using four-point bending. This solution does not account for initial residual stresses and geometric imperfections built-in hotrolled sections. This paper presents results from a full-scale test on a hot-rolled steel section curved using four-point bending. In parallel, a numerical analysis, accounting for both initial geometric imperfections and initial residual stresses, was carried out. The models were validated against the experimental results and a good agreement for lateral offset and for strain in the elastoplastic and post-plastic ranges was achieved. The results show that the effect of initial residual stresses on deformation and strain is minimal. Finally, residual stresses due to cold bending calculated from the numerical analysis were assessed and a revised stress value for the service load design of the curved girder is proposed.