nonlinear finite element modeling of welded semi _ rigid connections

no accurate analysis of steel structures can be achieved without a precise approximation of rigidity of the joints in actual structures typical connections do not behave in a perfectly rigid or a fully hinged manner hence determination of the real rigidity of the joints has always been a big challenge for structural enginners in this study a numerical approach based on nonlinear finite element method was adopted to study moment rotation relationship of several types of welded connections commonly used top the seat angle connection was chosen as a basis for modeling other components such as web angles and stifeners in various shape and positions were included in subsequent modeling.

Keywords:

steel , welded connection , semi rigid , top and seat angle , nonlinear FE analysis