Design of cold-formed high strength steel tubular T-joints under compression loads

This study presents a comprehensive finite element (FE) analysis of cold-formed high strength steel (CFHSS) tubular T-joints. The brace members T-joints were made up rectangular (including square) and circular hollow sections (RHS CHS), whereas the chord RHS. nominal yield strengths (i.e. 0.2% proof stresses) 900 960 MPa for S900 S960 steels, respectively. Finite models developed verified against tests conducted by Pandey Young (2019), showing capability reciprocating experimental joint strengths, failure modes load-deformation histories. material properties test results used validations FE are reported in (2019). tested under axial compression through members, while ends supported on rollers. Upon models, parametric comprised 285 analyses was carried out. validity ranges governing parameters this exceeded current given EC3 (EN 1993-1-8, 2005) CIDECT (Packer et al., 2009). A total 309 obtained from (Pandey Young, 2019) compared with In study, three observed, namely face failure, side wall combined failure. applicability stress function 2009) also evaluated grades. It is shown that existing design rules not directly suitable steels exceeding limits specified these specifications 2005, Packer their modifications needed. Therefore, using two approaches, i.e. semi-empirical applying correction factors latest equations EN 1993-1-12, 2007), proposed addition, reliability performed to check levels rules.