Comparative Analysis of Beam-to-Column End-Plate Bolted, Riveted and Welded Connections

Abstract

This piece of work aims at the modeling and using the finite-element method approach (FEM) to analyze the structures with bolted, riveted and welded column to beam end-plate connection in the structural steel framework subjected to static loading. A detailed 3D simulation model of the bolted, riveted and welded beam-to-column end-plate connections is constructed in PRO-E wildfire version 5.0 and it is analyzed in the ANSYS workbench version 14.0 to obtain their behaviors. The end-plate connection is chosen for its complexity in the analysis and behavior due to the number of connection components and their inheritable behavior. The solid elements, bonded contacts, and the bolt pretension are included to obtain the behavior of the structures. The results of bolted, riveted and welded models are compared and analyzed for the best connection method of joining the members through end plate in the structural steel framework. The fatigue behavior of the connections is also presented.