A numerical approach for evaluating the stiffness of steel tube–R.C. beam composite joint

A numerical approach has been developed for the analysis of composite joints of steel tubes embedded in reinforced concrete. This kind of joint is typically found at the foundation of composite columns and in open pile supported wharves. The performance of such joints is thought to have a considerable effect on the overall behaviour and ductility of the structures containing them as indicated by previous experimental and analytical work. The developed approach was based on a two-stage two dimensional analysis to account for the three dimensional nature of the joint behaviour. The validity of the new approach was proven by applying it to previously experimentally tested composite joints. Good agreement was observed between the joint behaviour as produced by the numerical analysis using the new approach and the experimental measurements. Considerable saving in computer run time was also achieved compared to the case of using three dimensional analysis.