Statistical evaluation of the lateral-torsional buckling resistance of steel I-beams, Part 2: Variability of steel properties

The statistical evaluation of codified resistance models is a crucial step to ensure that the derived reliability targets are achieved. Experimental tests are seldom sufficient to provide a statistically representative sample so that nowadays numerical tests are accepted provided they accurately reproduce experimental results. The evaluation of the influence of the variability of steel properties on the lateral-torsional resistance of steel beams is presented in this paper, leading to the assessment of the required partial safety factor gamma(M1) to ensure compliance with the EN 1990 reliability criteria. Results confirm that the choice of gamma(M1) = 1.0 is appropriate. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.