Flextural test of timber beams reinforced with steel bars and epoxy in Abaqus

Introduction to Flexural Testing of Timber Beams Reinforced with Steel Bars

Overview

The flexural test of timber beams reinforced with steel bars is an experimental procedure used to evaluate composite timber-steel structural elements’ bending strength, stiffness, and ductility. This test is essential for assessing how steel reinforcement enhances the mechanical performance of timber beams, which are traditionally weaker in tension compared to compression

All parts, such as timber beam, epoxy, and steel bar are modeled as three-dimensional solid parts. You can see a figure of the assembled part below

Purpose of the Test

Strength Enhancement – Determines how steel bars improve the load-bearing capacity of timber beams

Stiffness Evaluation – Measures the increase in flexural rigidity (EI) due to steel reinforcement

Ductility Assessment – Evaluates whether steel reinforcement prevents sudden brittle failure in timber

Failure Mode Analysis – Identifies whether failure occurs due to timber crushing (compression), steel yielding (tension), or bond slip between materials

Key Parameters Measured

Maximum Load (P_max) – The highest load the beam sustains before failure

Deflection at Midspan – Vertical displacement under applied load

Modulus of Rupture (MOR) – Calculated bending stress at failure

Elastic Modulus (MOE) – Stiffness in the elastic deformation range

Strain Distribution – Measures deformation in timber and steel using strain gauges

Applications

Retrofitting Old Timber Structures – Strengthening existing beams with steel reinforcement

Hybrid Construction – Designing efficient timber-steel composite beams for modern buildings

Sustainable Engineering – Combining renewable timber with high-strength steel for eco-friendly structures

Flexural testing of steel-reinforced timber beams provides critical insights into composite behavior, helping engineers optimize designs for improved strength, durability, and safety. Further research focuses on bond performance, optimal reinforcement ratios, and long-term durability under environmental exposure

After the simulation, all results such as stress, strain, deflection, force-displacement diagram, and others are available. You can see some figures for the results below