This study focuses on the effects of load height on the inelastic lateral buckling of doubly stepped I-beams. The effects of having compact and non-compact flanges are also covered by this study. Two sections are analyzed: one having compact flanges and web while the other section has a compact web and non-compact flanges. The loadings are limited to those having an inflection point of zero. Also, the three main locations for the loads analyzed would be at the top of the flange, at the shear and at the bottom flange. The nonlinear analysis is done using the finite element program, ABAQUS. Also, to take into consideration the effect of inelastic buckling, residual stresses and geometric imperfections are applied to the models made. The results of the analysis would then determine if the location of the loads has significant effects on the buckling strength of the stepped beams. Also, the results are compared to the results of previous studies involving the effects of load-height on prismatic beams. The final results are tabulated and conclusions and new design methods are provided.

• Albert Surla
• Jong Sup Park