Nonlinear finite element modeling for steel beam-column connection attached with top and seat angle

Abstract

Two types of connection are generally considered in the design of steel structures in practice. These are classified as completely rigid (fixed) and simple (pin) connections. In theory, completely rigid connections cannot undergo rotation and simple connections cannot transfer moment. Nevertheless, in reality, rigid connections have a relative flexibility which makes them to rotate and simple connections have some reserve capacity to transfer moments. However, in an effort to increase the amount of data on the rotational stiffness of top and seat angle available to researchers, this thesis presents the modeled and non linear analysis of different theoretical top and seat angle connections. The finite element modeling software, ABAQUS, is used to create moment-rotation curves for these theoretical connections such as top and seat angle connection with bracket and top and seat angle connection with gusset plate. To demonstrate finite element modeling’s ability to accurately predict the response of the theoretical connections, the results of several experiments performed on top and seat connections are reproduced in ABAQUS. The result of this study shows that initial stiffness of top and seat angle connection increased when attached bracket or gusset plate in connection zone. It is also found that this type of connection can be classified as rigid connection.