Rotation capacity of partial strength steel joints with three-dimensional finite element approach

This paper presents a finite element analysis of partial strength steel joints. The joint configurations are drawn from a previous experimental study, with good prediction shown by the finite element model. Failure of the joint is confined to the end plate and is predicted by means of micromechanical models based on void growth mechanisms and coalescence, which are practical to apply to finite element analyses without additional modelling effort. Parametric studies are carried out to investigate the structural behaviour with variations in beam depth and thickness of the end plate. Quantitative assessments of resistance and rotation capacity are undertaken.

► Finite-element analyses of bolted end plate partial-strength joints are conducted. ► Overview of micromechanical modelling of fracture in structural steel. ► Use of micromechanical models to evaluate conditions for ductile fracture initiation. ► Numerical evaluation of the joint’s deformation capacity. ► Parametric study: evaluation of the effect of beam depth and end plate thickness.