Performance of extended end-plate bolted connections subjected to static and blast-like loads

Abstract

In this study, numerical models were developed to predict the behavior of steel extended end-plate moment connections subjected to static and blast-like loading. Two types of extended end-plate connections were considered, stiffened, and unstiffened, with pretensioned bolts. The models were verified by comparing the results with published experimental data. The models were used to compute the moment-rotation curves for the connection under static loading, and then under different blast durations. The pressure impulse diagram and the energy dissipation for the connection under dynamic loading were determined. The failure modes were examined, and the numerical results were compared with the simplified models presented in codes and standards. Improvement in the performance of the connection by adding one or two stiffeners was demonstrated. For the configuration studied, introducing a stiffener increased plastic dissipation energy for blast loading by 45% compared to the unstiffened connection, whereas under static loading, the plastic energy dissipation for stiffened connection, SC2, was higher than the unstiffened connection by 30%. A conservative estimate for the dynamic increase factor (DIF) was found to be 1.2 for steel yield stress and 1.05 for bolt failure.

Modern Methods for Modelling Bolted Joints at the Assembly Stage – A Systematic Review

“…In this fastener model, referred to as Model C, the threads are also not considered due to the bolt and nut being fused, as mentioned above. This is the most common fastener model used in the studies included in this review and is applied to simulate the behavior of the following bolted joints: • beam-to-column joints, [36], [37], [38], [39], [40], [41], [42], [43], [44], [45], [46], [47], [48], [49], [50], [51], [52], [53], [54], [55], [56], [57], [58], [59], [60], [61], [62], [63], [64], [65], [66],…”

Structural Behavior Analysis of the Beam-Column Connections of Existing Steel Structure Buildings based on Finite Element Modeling-Idea StatiCa

“…In the meantime, Osman and Mourad [1] created a numerical model to forecast the behavior of steel extended end-plate moment connections under blastlike and static stress using ABAQUS software. When a stiffener was added to the configuration under study, the plastic energy dissipation for blast loading increased by 45% when compared to the unstiffened connection.…”

Assessment of steel moment end plate connections under blast loading

“…Lee et al (2021) [2] compared the progressive collapse resistance of steel frames with different connection details, highlighting the effectiveness of Reduced Beam Section (RBS) connections. Osman and Mourad (2021) [12] studied the behavior of stiffened and unstiffened extended endplate moment connections under blast loading, demonstrating the improvement in performance achieved by adding stiffeners. These studies showcase advancements in connection design that can enhance the blast resistance of steel structures.…”