Direct Strength Method in Built-Up Cold-Formed Steel Beams: Reliability Analysis Under Different Code-Specified Load Combinations

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5216/reec.v21i1.81740

Keywords:

Cold formed profiles, direct strength method, Structural reliability, Built-up beams, Bending

Abstract

In cold-formed steel structures, the use of built-up beams, particularly U-sections, has been increasing. The growing demand for cost-effective solutions has led to the development of built-up members with enhanced load-carrying capacity. This paper proposes a reliability assessment of built-up members by applying the Direct Strength Method (DSM). A comprehensive database was established, including both open and closed cross-sections. Using this database, a statistical analysis of the "model error" variable was performed, followed by reliability index (β) evaluations to assess the safety levels of DSM. The approach considered a finite strip model that emphasizes the composite action of the elements forming the section. In the reliability analysis, the load combinations prescribed by the AISI S100 (AISI, 2016) and NBR 14762 (ABNT, 2010) standards were applied. Furthermore, a calibration of the resistance factors, Ø (AISI, 2016) and γ (ABNT, 2010), was conducted for each target reliability index specified in the codes. The results highlighted the need for adjustments to the currently adopted resistance factors. Based on the conducted analysis, more appropriate values would be approximately: ØLRFD ≈ 0.85, ØLSD ≈ 0.70, and γNBR ≈ 1.25. These adjustments can contribute to a more accurate design approach, better aligned with safety and structural performance requirements.

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Author Biographies

  • Marcelo Borges Pereira, Federal University of Ouro Preto (UFOP), Ouro Preto - MG, Brazil - borgespereira79@gmail.com

    Engenheiro Civil pela Universidade Federal do Pará (2023) e mestrado em Engenharia Civil pela Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto (2025). Atualmente faz doutorado na Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto.

  • André Luis Riqueira Brandão, Federal University of Itajubá (UNIFEI), Itajubá - MG, Brazil - andreriqueira@unifei.edu.br

    Engenheiro civil com mestrado e doutorado pela Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto (UFOP). Possui experiência em projetos e fiscalização de obras, tanto em empresas públicas quanto privadas. Desde 2008, atua como professor na Universidade Federal de Itajubá (UNIFEI- Itabira).

  • Sousa da Rocha Freitas Sousa da Rocha Freitas, Federal University of Ouro Preto (UFOP), Ouro Preto - MG, Brazil - marcilio@ufop.edu.br

    Engenheiro Civil pela Universidade Federal do Piauí em 1987, mestrado e doutorado em Engenharia Civil pela COPPE/UFRJ em 1991 e 1998. Professor Titular, ocupou o cargo de Pró-Reitor de Graduação da Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto de 2013 a 2017, e coordenou o Programa de Pós-Graduação em Engenharia Civil em alguns mandatos.

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Published

2026-06-29

How to Cite

BORGES PEREIRA, M.; RIQUEIRA BRANDÃO, A. L.; SOUSA DA ROCHA FREITAS, S. DA R. F. Direct Strength Method in Built-Up Cold-Formed Steel Beams: Reliability Analysis Under Different Code-Specified Load Combinations. REEC - Revista Eletrônica de Engenharia Civil, v. 21, n. 1, p. 142–157, 29 Jun.2026.