Effect of discontinuity size on the energy absorption of structural steel beam profiles

The effect of size discontinuities on the energy absorption performance of squared steel profiles is reported. Finite element simulations of the compression strength of profiles with discontinuities, placed at mid span of the steel profiles in two opposite walls, were carried out. Circular and elliptical forms of the discontinuities were evaluated. Energy absorption capabilities were increased up to 12.54% and the peak load value was decreased to 10.52% with respect to the same structure without discontinuities. A buckling effect is observed in structures with discontinuities, which contributes to reducing the peak value while the energy absorbing characteristics decrease.