Indentation of sandwich beams having thin metal faces

It is aimed to investigate the indentation loads of thin galvanized steel sandwich beams using the finite element method. For this purpose, finite element models are used to calculate the approximate indentation loads. Then, modified analytical expression yielding the pre-indentation loads is developed. After that, indentation tests (Tests are the scope of the project BAP Code : FYL2016-1424) are conducted on the specimens produced to check validity of the finite element model and the results of analytical expressions. To create the finite element models Octave and SAP2000 Structural Analysis and Design software have been used and the analysis steps are shown detailed in the thesis. The indentation loads obtained by the finite element model and the test results have been listed and comparison has been made. This comparison shows that, the results are appropriate for pre-design procedures. Probable causes of this discrepancy are investigated and suggestions have been made. It is tought that, to get better results by the finite element models, specification of the core material (foam) should be determined by using the load direction and deformation issues.