Nonlinear Analysis on Prying of Top-and Seat-Angle Connections

Abstract

Nonlinear finite element (FE) analyses are performed to simulate the behavior of top- and seat-angle connections. Contact model with small sliding option is applied between contact pair surfaces of all connecting elements. Bolt pretension force is introduced in the initial steps of analysis. Numerical analysis results together with the prediction by Kishi-Chen power model are compared with experimental ones to examine the applicability of proposed analysis method and power model. The study is farther extended by analyzing the models varying connection parameters, material properties of connection assemblages, and magnitude of bolt pretension. The following results are obtained: 1) bolt sustains additional tensile force due to prying action; 2) prying force develops more quickly due to increment of bolt diameter, gage distance from angle heel to the centerline of bolt hole, and reduction of angle thickness; and 3) bolt pretension increases the initial connection stiffness.