ANALYSIS ON THE BEHAVIOR OF STEEL FRAME END-PLATE CONNECTIONS
In order to study the effect of various tectonics on the behavior of steel frame end-plate connections,non-linear finite element model is established using ABAQUS,with detailed description about how to choose elements types,bolts force behavior,the material stress-strain relationship and contact model.Non-linear finite element model is proved correct and applicable compared with existed steel frame-composite connections quasi-static tests home and abroad.With the comparison between finite element analysis and tests results,the behavior of end-plate connections is further discussed.The results show that: the finite element analysis method can effectively predict the capacity behavior,hysteresis properties,ultimate deformation and damage modes of steel frame end-plate connections with various tectonics;the characteristics of flush-type end-plate connections are closer to hinge ones,bearing capacity and stiffness are reduced by nearly 50% and the hysteresis curve has a serious deterioration;reasonable stiffening ribs of extended end-plate are good energy-consuming components which can make for good mechanical properties of the connections.These research results provide a reference for design and construction.