Behavior of Welded T-Stubs Subjected to Tensile Loads

Abstract eng:
T-stub moment connections are an alternative to welded steel beam-to-column moment connections. Significant research has been conducted on the behavior of the connection and the T-stub, resulting in models and design procedures. However, most research has been conducted on hot-rolled T stubs. Welded T stubs are a promising alternative to hot-rolled T-stubs, considering the freedom of sizing, and the absence of hot-rolled sections in several countries. Analytical and experimental studies on the behavior of welded T-stubs subjected to tensile loading were conducted. The objectives of these studies included determining the controlling limit states for welded T-stubs, increasing the database of tests for these components, and evaluating applicability of current design recommendations to welded T-stub moment connections. A finite element model of a welded T-stub was created and subjected to monotonic tensile loads to study the effects of stem-to-flange thickness ratio and bolt arrangement. Fillet welds between stem and flange were modeled. The analysis results indicate that yielding of the T stem may not be the controlling limit state because of the presence of the weld, and that allowing for a controlled prying of the T flange may be more appropriate. A series of T-stubs with configurations similar to those studied analytically, scaled to one-half the original sizes, were tested under monotonically increasing tensile loads. The test results show that the strength of the T stub is above that predicted by current strength models and the dominating failure mode is bolt fracture due to prying action.

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