Numerical simulation of steel pretensioned bolted end-plate connections of different types and details

This paper describes the development of a finite element numerical model with the ability to simulate and analyse the mechanical behaviour of different types of beam–column end-plate connections in which all of the bolts are pretensioned. The general purpose ANSYS software forms the basis of the modelling and its new functions are used to simulate the interface between the end plate and the column flange, as well as the pretension force in the bolts. Modelling of this kind has hitherto not been reported. The finite element model is compared with test results, which verify that the numerical procedure can simulate and analyse the overall and detailed behaviour of a number of types of bolt-pretensioned end-plate connections and components accurately, including the generation of the moment–rotation (MM–ϕϕ) relationship, the contact status between the end-plate and the column flange, the behaviour of the end plate, the panel zone and bolts, and the influences of the bolt pretension force. Moreover, the numerical model also provides some additional useful results which are difficult to measure during testing, including the distribution of the pressure and frictional forces between the end plate and column flange induced by the bolt pretension and the moment at the joint, and the principal stress flow in the connections. This knowledge provides a basis for developing mechanical models consistent with the Eurocode component method of joint design. The validated numerical model is used for additional parametric finite element analyses of a number of beam-to-column bolt-pretensioned end-plate connections so as to produce a comprehensive study of their behaviour.