Overlapped K Joints in Circular Hollow Sections Under Axial Loading (An Investigation of the Factors Affecting the Static Strength Using Numerical Modeling)

Abstract

Overlapped joints are generally regarded as having higher strengths than otherwise identical, simple nonoverlapping joints because of the more efficient load transfer between braces. However, not only that relatively little research has been carried out on such joints, the few test data from which current design guidance was derived has also been recently rejected. This paper reports the first phase of a parametric finite element study into the strength of overlapping K joints under axial loading. The numerical models were validated and calibrated against existing gap and overlapped K joint test results, and various factors which affect the relationship between the strength and the overlap amount, such as boundary restraints, hidden welds, loading hierarchy, and failure modes, were investigated. The results of the work presented lay the foundation for a future parametric study.