Behavior of Circular Hollow Sections Solid Flanged Splice

Abstract

As the use of circular hollow section (CHS) is growing due to its aesthetic shape, attention should be given to its connections. Splicing the CHS is essential for its use as long flexural member. This research investigates the behavior of flanged CHS splice under pure bending. A finite element study is conducted to investigate the behavior of flanged splice with eight bolts arrangement and three different diameters. The finite element model is verified against experimental results. It showed good agreement in terms of both ultimate moment and flexural stiffness. Three different modes of failures are observed and investigated. Generally, mode of failure depends on the thickness of the end plate. Results of different end plate thicknesses is presented and the transition thickness between different modes is determined.