A Finite Element Model for the Prediction of the Behavior of an Unstiffened Top and Seat Angle Connection with Various Top Angle Bolt Gage Distances

Abstract

This study aimed at proposing a finite element model for predicting the initial rotational stiffness and plastic moment capacity of the Type A top and seat angle connection without double web angles. The main parameter of the 3D nonlinear finite element analysis was the bolt gage distance of the top angle. The finite element analysis resulted not only in the rotational stiffness and the plastic moment capacity, but also in the stress distribution and the plastic hinge location. The study verified the applicability of the finite element model by comparing the results of the finite element analysis with those of existing experimental studies.