Analytical and Experimental Comparison of the Composite Space Truss with Plain and Profiled Decking Sheets Employing Headed-Stud and Channel-Stud Shear Connector

Space trusses are typically used in industrial structures as a three-dimensional frame to span a greater area. Its low weight and enhanced stiffness-to-weight ratio are two of a space truss structure's main advantages. The concrete slab laid over the upper chord elements of the space trusses resolved the buckling difficulties of the critical elements. The composite action between the concrete slab and steel space truss is crucial to the structure's ability to support loads. Research done in the past showed that the channel section works better than the conventional stud section in steel-concrete composite beams with different types of shear connectors. In this paper, a novel channel shear connector is proposed for use in composite space truss applications to facilitate connection with the Mero node connector. Using the analytical software ANSYS, a comparison study was conducted between the conventional headed-stud shear connector and the proposed channel-stud shear connector for plain and profiled decking sheet applications. By achieving monolithic action, the proposed shear connector was able to resist slip between steel and concrete. The load-carrying capacity was greater for the model with a plain decking sheet than for the model with profile ribs, while the resistance to slip between steel and concrete was greater for the model with profile ribs. The proposed shear connector's experimental study validated the analytical results, which showed satisfactory agreement with the values.

Automated summary

Space trusses are used as three-dimensional frames in industrial structures, providing greater span capabilities. The weight and stiffness-to-weight ratio of a space truss structure are advantageous. The concrete slab over the upper chords of the space trusses helps overcome buckling issues, and the composite action between the slab and truss is crucial for load support.