ABAQUS Modelling and Experimental Tests Comparison for Certain Classes of Composite Isolated Joints

Abstract

Depending on the type of configuration and connector arrangement, beam-to-column end-plate joints can be rigid, semi-rigid, or pinned. Fully restrained joints are required for rigid frames in which it is anticipated that the frame joints will have adequate rigidity to maintain the angles between intersecting parts in the service condition, ensuring full moment transfer. In contrast, partially restrained joints in semi-continuous frames are distinguished by relative rotations between crossing members, allowing the bending force to be transferred only partially. The concept of utilizing partially restricted, unstiffened joints in construction has gained traction since it looks to be more feasible and inexpensive. Bending transfer in partially constrained joints allows semi-continuous frames to withstand actions. Semi-continuous frames can survive actions due to bending transfer in partially restricted joints. At the same time, a certain degree of rotation is permitted, which improves the overall ductility of these structures. Using thinner end plates than those used in practical applications is one of the most effective ways to affect the ductility of end-plate beam-to-column joints. It was confirmed in a previous experimental study that the composite joints, where the thickness of the end plates is equivalent to about 60% of the diameter of the bolt used in composite joints, were taken into account in subsequent tests, and these studies can be confirmed using ABAQUS and Ls-Dyna modelling. All of these concerns are addressed, and recommendations for numerical modelling methodologies are made in order to ultimately analyse the reaction of the symmetric extended end plate joints with 8-bolts under hogging and sagging bending moments.