Ultimate Behavior of Bolted T-Stubs. II: Model Validation

Abstract

This paper presents the results of an experimental program devoted to the validation of a theoretical model for predicting the ultimate behavior of bolted T-stubs under monotonic loading conditions. Twelve specimens have been tested, under displacement control, to evaluate their plastic deformation supply. The specimens are characterized by different values of the ratio between the flexural resistance of the flanges and the axial resistance of the bolts, covering the whole range of practical design situations. The results from experimental evidence are compared with the force versus displacement curves predicted by means of the theoretical model presented in a companion paper, whose application is presented by means of a worked example. This comparison provides the validation of the proposed theoretical model, whose primary aim is the evaluation of the plastic deformation capacity of the most important component of bolted connections. Finally, by means of the validated theoretical model, the role of the parameters affecting the plastic deformation supply of bolted connections is stressed.