Dynamic Characterization of Connections in Plane Frames Using SFFEM

In the construction of civil engineering structures, two or more members are often rigidly connected to increase the structural integrity. These rigid joints are often designed with bolts, rivets and welding. The actions of in-service loading and environmental effects, or fabrication errors make these joints semirigid, which ultimately reduces the structural reliability. Realistic dynamic analysis of these structures requires accurate modelling of rigidity of joints. Dynamic analysis of plane frames can be accomplished by combining spectrally formulated Rod and Euler-Bernoulli Beam element. In this study, a six parameter spectral plane frame joint element is formulated using linear and rotational springs to account for semi-rigidity of joints. Methodology and experimental set up for evaluation of dynamic characteristics of connections is discussed in this paper.