Modeling of double-angle connections for robustness evaluation of steel gravity frames

Published

October 13, 2016

Author(s)

Jonathan Weigand, Judy Liu, Joseph Main

Abstract

Component-based models of bolted double-angle beam-to-column connections have been developed for evaluating the structural robustness of steel gravity frames. The component-based models were developed based on results from high-fidelity finite-element models, which used solid elements to model the bolts, angles, and wide-flange sections, with explicit modeling of contact and friction. Fracture was modeled using element erosion with a plastic-strain-based failure criterion and reduced ductility in the "k area" of the angle. The high-fidelity analyses were used to investigate the influence of span length on connection failure, including angle deformations at fracture. The component-based approach modeled each bolt row using a nonlinear load-displacement relationship that captured the effects of plastic hinge formation, straightening of the angle legs, and tearing of the angle near the heel. The component-based analysis results were compared with experimental data for double-angle connections subjected to combined rotation and axial extension representative of column loss scenarios.

Proceedings Title

International Workshop on Connections in Steel Structures 2016

Conference Dates

May 24-26, 2016

Conference Location

Boston, MA, US

Pub Type

Conferences

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Keywords

Buildings, connections, finite-element analysis, nonlinear analysis, progressive collapse, steel structures

Citation

Weigand, J. , Liu, J. and Main, J. (2016), Modeling of double-angle connections for robustness evaluation of steel gravity frames, International Workshop on Connections in Steel Structures 2016, Boston, MA, US, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=920256 (Accessed October 13, 2025)