Generalized Component-Based Model for Shear Tab Connections

Abstract

The behavior of a conventional steel single-plate (shear tab) connection is highly dependent on the type of loading to which it is subjected. Although these connections have been studied primarily under shear loading, reflecting their common usage in gravity framing, their behavior under combined loading scenarios is more complex. The objective of this study is to develop and validate a component-based mechanical shear tab connection model that accounts for the interactions of shear, axial load, and moment. The component-based methodology allows for the division of the connection into its constituent parts and for modeling of the force-deformation relationship of each part separately. Thus, the connection response to a broad array of load combinations can be obtained on the basis of the geometric and material properties of the connection. The model is validated against experimental results from a variety of loading regimes, and the sensitivity of the model performance to the connection and model parameters is presented.