Experimental Research and Finite Element Modeling of 3-D Semi-Rigid Composite Joints under Proportional Loads

Abstract

The behaviour of 2-D composite semi-rigid joints has been researched since the seventies, including experimental work, numerical models, analytical models and practical methods of analysis. However, one of the areas where research is still needed is in the three-dimensional behaviour of semi-rigid composite joints, that is, columns with beams attached to both axes (major and minor axis). This paper describes the details and the results of an experimental program consisting in a test of a 3D composite semi-rigid joint. The design of major axis connection is made with a bolted flush end plate connection while that of the minor axis is done by means of an additional plate welded to the column flanges, rather than attach it to the column web. The specimen is subjected to proportional loads, and further research will be done with non-proportional loads. A finite element (FE) model is developed and validated using the experimental results. The FE model will be used to perform a parametric study for three-dimensional semi-rigid composite joints subjected to proportional and non-proportional loads in a future research.