Design of cellular steel beams subjected to lateral torsional buckling

The present paper investigates the lateral torsional buckling resistance of cellular steel beams numerically. Such beams are quite sensitive to lateral instability owing to a substantial increase in depth of the cross-section with respect to the base profile. While a companion paper was dedicated to (i) characterising experimentally the behaviour of cellular and Angelina beams and to (ii) validating dedicated non-linear shell F.E. models, this paper details the results of extensive numerical studies. Several key parameters in the structural response are investigated, such as the base cross-section profile, bending moment distribution, size and position of the openings, steel grade and member slenderness. The results have further been used to assess an original design proposal for the lateral torsional buckling resistance of such girders. The improved design rules are shown to provide accurate yet safe ultimate load predictions. Also, in comparison with existing and available design rules, the proposal is seen to allow for substantially higher design loads - still safe-sided -, potentially leading to significant material savings.