Limitations on the use of partial shear connection in composite beams with single flange steel beams and composite dowels - Part 2: Analysis of the load bearing and deformation behaviour and modes for the minimum degree of partial shear connection

For composite beams with single flange steel beams and composite dowel connectors, the limitations to the use of partial shear connection have not yet been clarified. In this paper (continuation of [1]) the bearing and deformation behavior is analyzed using experimentally verified FE models. For this purpose, a comprehensive parametric study is performed, in which, in addition to the degree of shear connection and different cross-sectional types, different parameters of the composite beam are varied which do not enter into the analytical calculation of the plastic bending moment capacity. These are, on the one hand, properties which depend on the static system, such as the loading situation (single load or uniformly distributed load) and the span, on the other hand, the slip deformation behavior of the connectors is varied by establishing different ductility characteristics for pry-out and steel failure of composite dowels. Based on the simulation results, equations are derived for the minimum degree of partial shear connection for beams with single flange steel sections and composite dowel connectors including all required limitations of use for plastic design. The own models are compared to regulations given in a technical approval for composite dowels. The models may also be adopted for composite beams with steel T-sections and horizontally lying shear studs.