Bending Test of Composite Beams With Interlocking Connections of Steel and LVL

In this study, a new connection method for the use of laminated veneer lumber (LVL) in steel structures was proposed, and its bending capacity was investigated. The proposed composite beam incorporates an interlocking connection, which is expected to provide bearing resistance. To evaluate the bending capacity of the composite beam, bending tests were conducted. The results showed that a longer interlocking length enhanced the bending capacity of the connection, and that bearing resistance predominantly governed the improvement in connection bending capacity. Based on the experimental results, a formula for estimating the bending capacity of interlocking connections was developed. It was indicated that the bending capacity of the proposed connections was 1.64 to 2.05 times greater than the calculated value.