Failure Mode of Steel Tension Members Due to Change in Connection Eccentricity and Connection Length

Abstract

Tension members consisting of single and double angles, single channels and similar sections are frequently used for lateral bracing and as truss elements. Such members normally have eccentric connections which results in bending of tension member. It is often permitted, by current design specifications, to neglect this eccentricity in the design of the member.

The present study is focus on examining the effect of varying connection eccentricity and connection length on the ultimate capacity of the bolted WT tension members. In present study connection length is increased by increasing the pitch between the holes instead of increasing the number of bolts. This work presents six experimental test carried out on WT tension members fastened with bolts, to calculate the failure capacity and also to trace the entire load versus deflection path.

The revolution in computer field has enabled Finite Element Method as major technique for solving engineering design problem with required reliability and accuracy. In present work the Finite Element Analysis of WT section is carried out. The surface-to-surface contact is given between the gusset plate and web of the WT section to fully transfer the load to the web.

Results of Finite Element Analyses are compared with experimental results. The failure capacities predicted by the FEA are in close agreement with the experimental observed failure capacities of the WT section subjected to tensile loading.