Computer Nonlinear Analysis of Ultimate Bearing Capacity of Corrugated-arch Metal Roof

Corrugated-arch Metal Roof is not an isotropic structure so that the panels are simulated as orthotropic sheets. A self-made program of this structure is established for nonlinear finite element analysis. Ultimate bearing capacity is analyzed by use of the finite element analysis system. The results are compared with experimental results and calculations by the specification, and then the nonlinear program is validated. Parameter analyses on bearing capacity are performed, in which 5 main factors: rise-span ratio, sheet type, sheet thickness, effective span and loading mode are considered. The analysis results indicate that the theoretical ultimate bearing capacity is determined by overall stability under full-span or half-span loading. The ultimate bearing capacity is relatively high when the rise-span ratio is between 0.2-0.3; the bearing capacity reduces with the increasing span of the structure; the bearing capacity is comparatively low under half-span loading. Finally, design recommendations based on the parameter analyses are presented.