The Effect of Openings on Stress Distribution in Glass Beams - Dependence on Diameter of Openings

Abstract

Presented paper describes the behaviour of simply supported single ply glass beam with discontinuities in its geometry. Discontinuity is introduced by four openings symmetrically placed over the beam. This type of simplified structure represents cut out of real constructions where similar glass components are used as primary load bearing structures supporting glazing of roofs or decks of pedestrian bridges. The main focus of this article is in research of stress distribution around openings and how different diameter of a hole influences stresses in its close proximity. As Eurocode standards for glass structures are still not codified and most of the nowadays literature only provide suggested diameters of holes based on the thickness of the glass pane, this paper will provide the future designers of glass load bearing structures with closer look at stress distribution around mentioned area. In order to bring those informations to theirs seekers, both experimental analysis and numerical analysis together with parametric study were used.