Finite element-based mathematical moment-rotation model for flush end plate connections

This study employed a three-dimensional (3-D) coupled nonlinear finite element model for analyzing the flush end-plate connections. The finite element model developed mimics the moment-rotation relationship of the flush end-plate connections obtained from experiments. The 3-D model incorporates beam, column, end plate, and bolt in the analysis. Due to the symmetry of the model about the plane passing through the mid-thickness of the beam web, half of the connection was modeled. A bilinear stress strain relationship was used for the end-plate and the bolt. The effect of plasticity, contact and the pretensioning of the bolts were also included in the model. To verify the 3-D finite element model, experimental results from eight flush end-plate connection test specimens were used. The beam and end-plate material used for the experiments was A572 Gr50 steel and bolts were A325. Parametric study was conducted on 34 test cases selected from the practical ranges to determine the effect of various geometric parameters on the behavior of flush end plate connections.; Two mathematical models; Ramberg-Osgood and Three Parameter Power models were used to curve fit the moment-rotation (M-theta) curves obtained through the finite element analysis. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)...