Numerical analysis on bolted T-stub to square hollow section connections under tension

Abstract

Connections are an integral part of a structure to transfer the load from one member to another. In the present study, the finite element software Abaqus/CAE® was used to assess the tensile load-carrying capacity of the bolted T-stub to the square hollow section stainless-steel connection. The failure criteria of the bolted beam to column connections varies depending on the strength and properties of the individual components. Steel hollow sections are superior to equivalent solid sections in bending stiffness and torsional rigidity. The combination of square hollow section and T stub sections under tension are acted upon by prying action. The typical failure modes observed in this connection were bolt fracture and flange yielding. A comprehensive parametric study was performed to determine the effect of the diameter of bolts, the distance of bolts from the stem of the T stub, and component thickness. The connection tensile load carrying capacity was observed to be increased by 88 % when the flange thickness was increased from 2 mm to 7 mm.

Keywords: T- stub, Tension, Square hollow section, Prying action, Initial stiffness, Stainless-steel connections