Finite element analysis and design method for ultra-large capacity end-plate connections
Chen Xuesen1,2 Shi Gang1,2 Wang Dongyang1,2 Zhao Junlin3 Yu Hanming3 Wei Dong3
1. Department of Civil Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
2. Key Laboratory of Civil Engineering Safety and Durability of the Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
3. Shanghai Cosco Kavasaki Industries Steel Structure Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201908, China
Abstract：The ultra-large capacity end-plate connections, which can be applied in steel structures with large spans or heavy loads, can provide larger moment resistance than the ordinary end-plate connections and the large capacity end-plate connections. However, the design method for the ordinary end-plate connections cannot be applied to the new-form connections directly because of the inhomogeneous distribution of the tension load carried by the bolts as well as the complicated stress state in the end plate. Finite element models are established and validated to be reliable with the existing test results. The performance of the ultra-large capacity end-plate connections is analyzed with the proposed model. The yield line model of the end plate in the tension side, as well as the distribution model of the tension load carried by the bolts in the tension side, is proposed according to the results. Based on the Chinese code and the proposed models, a design method for the ultra-large capacity end-plate connections is presented. The design moment resistance of the ultra-large capacity end-plate connections obtained by the proposed method is compared to that of the finite element models. Under the ultimate limit state of high-strength bolts specified in the Chinese code, the proposed method can offer a safer result.
