Structural Behavior of End-Plate Bolted Connections to Stiffened Columns

Abstract

A methodology based on inelastic finite-element modeling is employed to evaluate analytically the stiffness and strength characteristics of steel bolted end-plate connections. ANSYS, version 4.4, a large-scale general-purpose finite-element code, is selected for three-dimensional analysis. All major elements influencing the overall response of such connections, including column, beam, bolt components, material plasticity, strain hardening, and interaction of end-plate and column flange through their contact regions, are considered in this framework. The connections are loaded under pure bending moment and the analysis is restricted to internal symmetric, two-way connections. The overall moment-rotation behavior, both for hand-tight and prestressed initial conditions, is discussed and compared against experimental data. The patterns of deformation, stress, and prying force are illustrated using stereoscopic graphs. They are considered as valuable tools for designers to interpret the mechanism(s) through which a connection responds to applied load.