analytical shape optimization of metal deck with respect to bending capacity

analytical shape optimization of metal deck with respect to bending capacity

metal decks are commonly used in building construction as well as bridge industry as formwork for the wet concrete slab. they have ribbed profile with embossments designed to interlock with concrete slab creating a reinforced concrete slab serving the dual purpose of permanent form and positive reinforcement. the in-plane stiffness and strength of the metal forms are widely relied upon for stability bracing in buildings. there have been a number of previous investigations focused on metal decks. this paper aims to determine optimum rib height of the section so as to achieve maximum bending capacity. to this end, by keeping the whole length of the plate in a period being constant, its elastic section modulus is extremized, which results in hr=3 wr as optimum condition, where hr and wr are rib height and rib width, respectively. to the authors’ knowledge this is the first time that such analytical calculations are being performed.