Simplified Calculation Method for Force Transfer in Composite Columns

Force transfer from steel to concrete without mechanical transfer devices is investigated in composite columns at points of load introduction. The subject is studied experimentally by means of several tests on short composite columns, and theoretically by means of a numerical model. A mechanism of force transfer and the factors influencing the transfer are identified. The important factors are quantified and incorporated into a proposed simplified design method. The most important result obtained is that shear resistance values are highly dependent on the size of the embedded steel section. Lower shear resistance values than those found in current design codes were obtained for large embedded steel sections.