Experimental and mechanical model for predicting the behaviour of minor axis beam-to-column semi-rigid joints

• Main Author: Lima, L. R. O. de
• Publication Date: 2002
• Other Authors: Andrade, S. A. L. de, Vellasco, P. C. G. da S., Silva, L. S. da
• Format: Article
• Language: eng
• Source: Repositórios Científicos de Acesso Aberto de Portugal (RCAAP)
• Download full: https://hdl.handle.net/10316/4018; https://doi.org/10.1016/S0020-7403(02)00013-9
• topic: Structural steel connections; Semi-rigid joints; Finite element modelling, Component method; Mechanical models

This paper describes a series of experimental tests followed by finite element simulations produced to enable the prediction of moment resistance and rotation capacity of minor axis beam-to-column semi-rigid connections. These investigations motivated the development of a mechanical model to assess the connection's structural response. The mechanical model is based on the component method of design, in accordance with the Eurocode 3 specification. This philosophy implies that each joint component is represented by a spring possessing a non-linear force versus displacement (F-[Delta]) curve. The model was subsequently calibrated against experimental and finite element results previously performed.