Flange yield and load/deflection in plate girders with different types of end stiffeners

The load/deflection behavior of plate girders was investigated both analytically and numerically. The load/deflection values in the pre-buckling and post-buckling stages were calculated by an analytical approach presented in the literature, using the finite element program ABAQUS. The analytical effects of the parameters on the load/deflection curves were compared with experimental results published in the literature. The main parameters were the imperfection, stiffener thickness, end post type (rigid, non-rigid, stiffened, zero-e or no end post), end distance, and web panel ratio. The yield of the flanges received special attention. The analytical approach well estimated the load/deflection behaviors of panels with web panel ratios