Benchmark cases for advanced design of structural steel Connections (joints)

CONTENTS

The CBFEM (component-based finite element model) is a new method to analyze and design connections of steel structures. Design focused CM (component model) is compared to FEM (finite elements models).

This publication introduces benchmark cases for validation and verification procedures of structural steel joints. The hierarchy of the system response quantity is prepared for welded and bolted connections as well as for column bases.

Each benchmark case starts with task description and includes results of prediction by analytical model according to EN 1993-1-5, references to experiments, validated model and numerical experiments, results of prediction by design Finite Element Analyses described in terms of global behaviour and verification of resistance.

The reader may also check his calculation against benchmark cases prepared for particular joints. Finite Element Analyses is the next step in design of steel joints and connections.

It allows predicting generally loaded joints with complex geometry with the same efficiency and accuracy as traditionally designed connections based on the best engineering practice. Implementation of the FEA models for structural steel detailing is a qualitative step forward similar to what we see in other areas of engineering.