Local stresses at the intersection of cross-beam flange with box-girder web

Abstract Local stresses at the intersection of a top flange of a cross beam with a box-girder web are investigated analytically and experimentally. Finite element analyses of a T-shaped welded joint and a loading test of a cantilever beam of acrylic material reveal that a local stress which is different from the one caused by the stress concentrations at a weld toe is developed at the intersection. Finite element analyses of an I-section beam show that the restraint of the vertical deformation of the cross beam at the box-girder web induces the local stress. It is pointed out that the local stress must be considered in fatigue design. A method of determining the local stress is proposed.