Finite element (FE) modelling of storage rack frames

•A finite element (FE) model for the advanced analysis of rack frames is developed and validated against full-scale tests.•The FE model is shell element-based and incorporates geometric imperfections and the semi-rigid behaviour of the pallet connections.•Geometrics imperfections are incorporated by shifting the nodes of the model according to the shape of pure buckling modes.•Point-based moment-rotation curves at the intersection of members reproduce the semi-rigid behavior of the connections.•A discussion on the appropriate moment-rotation curve to add to the model, from the available component tests, is presented.

This paper describes a study that led to the development of an FE model for the advanced analysis of storage rack frames. The FE model is shell element-based and incorporates geometric imperfections and the semi-rigid behaviour of the pallet beam-to-upright connections. The procedure to model geometric imperfections shifts the nodes of the model according to the superimposed shapes of pure buckling modes and covers frame, member and sectional type of imperfections. The semi-rigid behaviour of connections is implemented in the model by a point-based moment-rotation relation at the intersections between members. Furthermore, the study discusses the appropriate moment-rotation curve from the available component tests to add to the model.The strength and deflection results of failure analysis are then validated against the results of four full-scale tests and the statistics of model uncertainty are obtained. Finally, strength predictions are obtained for two illustrative storage rack frames.