Computational Modeling of Beam-Column Joint with Wedge Effect

Abstract

This paper presents a precast continuous beam-column joint that bases its structural work on the wedge effect given by the friction between the beam, concrete wedge, and column. It was used in an industrialized social building system with excellent performance and is intended to extend its use to architectural programs for residential buildings, which requires the study of the behavior of the beam-column joint. Computational modeling based on FEM implemented in the software Abaqus, calibrated against full-scale test results, is used. The numerical results showed correspondence with the experimental full-scale test. Using a statistical design of experiment approach, the influence of the axial load and the specified compression strength of the wedge concrete in the bearing load and the friction load were determined, and the percentage of loads that are transmitted by friction and by direct bearing in each area of the joint are reported. Additionally, there is statistical evidence that column axial load contributes to the development of the wedge effect, and the effect of friction on the structural performance of the joint is demonstrated.