Showing papers in "Steel and Composite Structures in 2017"

A new and simple HSDT for thermal stability analysis of FG sandwich plates

Abstract: The novelty of this work is the use of a new displacement field that includes undetermined integral terms for analyzing thermal buckling response of functionally graded (FG) sandwich plates. The proposed kinematic uses only four variables, which is even less than the first shear deformation theory (FSDT) and the conventional higher shear deformation theories (HSDTs). The theory considers a trigonometric variation of transverse shear stress and verifies the traction free boundary conditions without employing the shear correction factors. Material properties of the sandwich plate faces are considered to be graded in the thickness direction according to a simple power-law variation in terms of the volume fractions of the constituents. The core layer is still homogeneous and made of an isotropic material. The thermal loads are assumed as uniform, linear and non-linear temperature rises within the thickness direction. An energy based variational principle is employed to derive the governing equations as an eigenvalue problem. The validation of the present work is checked by comparing the obtained results the available ones in the literature. The influences of aspect and thickness ratios, material index, loading type, and sandwich plate type on the critical buckling are all discussed.

An efficient hyperbolic shear deformation theory for bending, buckling and free vibration of FGM sandwich plates with various boundary conditions

Abstract: In this research, a simple hyperbolic shear deformation theory is developed and applied for the bending, vibration and buckling of powerly graded material (PGM) sandwich plate with various boundary conditions. The displacement field of the present model is selected based on a hyperbolic variation in the in-plane displacements across the plate\'s thickness. By splitting the deflection into the bending and shear parts, the number of unknowns and equations of motion of the present formulation is reduced and hence makes them simple to use. Equations of motion are obtained from Hamilton\'s principle. Numerical results for the natural frequencies, deflections and critical buckling loads of several types of powerly graded sandwich plates under various boundary conditions are presented. The accuracy of the present formulation is demonstrated by comparing the computed results with those available in the literature. As conclusion, this theory is as accurate as other theories available in the literature and so it becomes more attractive due to smaller number of unknowns.

Simplified criteria for finite element modelling of European preloadable bolts

Abstract: High strength preloadable bolt assemblies are commonly adopted in beam-to-column bolted connections. Nowadays, two systems of high strength preloadable grade 10.9 bolt assembly are recommended in Europe for structural applications, namely HR and HV, which are characterized by different failure modes. Recently, experimental tests performed on HR and HV bolt assemblies highlighted that the type of bolt assembly may significantly influence the joint response. Therefore, the accuracy of numerical modelling of bolt assemblies is crucial to simulate effectively the non-linear behaviour of bolted joints with either failure mode 2 or mode 3 of the bolt rows. In light of these considerations, this present paper describes and discusses some modelling criteria for both HR and HV bolts to be implemented in 3D finite element models by finite element analysis and structural designers. The comparison between the calibrated models and experimental results shows the accuracy of the proposed assumptions in simulating all stages of assembly tensile response.

An efficient and simple four variable refined plate theory for buckling analysis of functionally graded plates

Abstract: In this article, an efficient and simple refined theory is proposed for buckling analysis of functionally graded plates by using a new displacement field which includes undetermined integral variables. This theory contains only four unknowns, with is even less than the first shear deformation theory (FSDT). Governing equations are obtained from the principle of virtual works. The closed-form solutions of rectangular plates are determined. Comparison studies are carried out to check the validity of obtained results. The influences of loading conditions and variations of power of functionally graded material, modulus ratio, aspect ratio, and thickness ratio on the critical buckling load of functionally graded plates are examined and discussed.

Effects of triaxial magnetic field on the anisotropic nanoplates

Abstract: In this study, the influences of triaxial magnetic field on the wave propagation behavior of anisotropic nanoplates are studied. In order to include small scale effects, nonlocal strain gradient theory has been implemented. To study the nanoplate as a continuum model, the three-dimensional elasticity theory is adopted in Cartesian coordinate. In our study, all the elastic constants are considered and assumed to be the functions of (x, y, z), so all kind of anisotropic structures such as hexagonal and trigonal materials can be modeled, too. Moreover, all types of functionally graded structures can be investigated. eigenvalue method is employed and analytical solutions for the wave propagation are obtained. To justify our methodology, our results for the wave propagation of isotropic nanoplates are compared with the results available in the literature and great agreement is achieved. Five different types of anisotropic structures are investigated in present paper and then the influences of wave number, material properties, nonlocal and gradient parameter and uniaxial, biaxial and triaxial magnetic field on the wave propagation analysis of anisotropic nanoplates are presented. From the best knowledge of authors, it is the first time that three-dimensional elasticity theory and nonlocal strain gradient theory are used together with no approximation to derive the governing equations. Moreover, up to now, the effects of triaxial magnetic field have not been studied with considering size effects in nanoplates. According to the lack of any common approximations in the displacement field or in elastic constant, present theory has the potential to be used as a bench mark for future works.

Numerical analysis of tilted angle shear connectors in steel-concrete composite systems

Abstract: This study investigates numerically the behavior of tilted angle shear connectors embedded in solid concrete slabs. Two different tilted angle connectors were used, titled angle with 112.5 and 135 degrees between the angle leg and steel beam flange. A nonlinear finite element model was developed to simulate and validate the experimental push-out tests. Parametric studies were performed to investigate the variations in concrete strength and connector's dimensions. The results indicate that the ultimate strength of a tilted angle shear connector is directly related to the square root of the concrete compressive strength. The effects of variations in the geometry of tilted angle connectors on the shear capacity are discussed in details. Based on the numerical analyses, two equations are proposed to estimate the ultimate capacity of tilted angle shear connectors of 112.5 and 135 degrees in the defined range of parameters.

The dynamic instability of FG orthotropic conical shells within the SDT

Abstract: The dynamic instability of truncated conical shells subjected to dynamic axial load within first order shear deformation theory (FSDT) is examined. The conical shell is made from functionally graded (FG) orthotropic material. In the formulation of problem a dynamic version of Donnell\'s shell theory is used. The equations are converted to a Mathieu-Hill type differential equation employing Galerkin\'s method. The boundaries of main instability zones are found applying the method proposed by Bolotin. To verify these results, the results of other studies in the literature were compared. The influences of material gradient, orthotropy, as well as changing the geometric dimensions on the borders of the main areas of the instability are investigated.

Thermal vibration of two-dimensional functionally graded (2D-FG) porous Timoshenko nanobeams

Abstract: The thermo-mechanical vibration behavior of two dimensional functionally graded (2D-FG) porous nanobeam is reported in this paper. The material properties of the nanobeam are variable along thickness and length of the nanobeam according to the power law function. The nanobeam is modeled within the framework of Timoshenko beam theory. Eringen\'s s nonlocal elasticity theory is used to develop the governing equations. Using the generalized differential quadrature method (GDQM) the governing equations are solved. The effect of porosity, temperature distribution, nonlocal value, L/h, FG power indexes along thickness and length and are investigated using parametric studies.

Fractional magneto-thermoelastic materials with phase-lag Green-Naghdi theories

Abstract: A unified mathematical model of phase-lag Green-Naghdi magneto-thermoelasticty theories based on fractional derivative heat transfer for perfectly conducting media in the presence of a constant magnetic field is given. The GN theories as well as the theories of coupled and of generalized magneto-thermoelasticity with thermal relaxation follow as limit cases. The resulting nondimensional coupled equations together with the Laplace transforms techniques are applied to a half space, which is assumed to be traction free and subjected to a thermal shock that is a function of time. The inverse transforms are obtained by using a numerical method based on Fourier expansion techniques. The predictions of the theory are discussed and compared with those for the generalized theory of magneto-thermoelasticity with one relaxation time. The effects of Alfven velocity and the fractional order parameter on copper-like material are discussed in different types of GN theories.

Numerical investigation of web crippling strength in cold-formed stainless steel lipped channels with web openings subjected to interior-two-flange loading condition

Abstract: In cold-formed stainless steel lipped channel-sections, use of web openings for service purposes are becoming increasingly popular. Web openings, however, result in the sections becoming more susceptible to web crippling. This paper presents a finite element investigation into the web crippling strength of cold-formed stainless steel lipped channel-sections with circular web openings under the interior-two-flange (ITF) loading condition. The cases of web openings located centred and offset to the bearing plates are considered in this study. In order to take into account the influence of the circular web openings, a parametric study involving 2,220 finite element analyses was performed, covering duplex EN1.4462, austenitic EN1.4404 and ferritic EN1.4003 stainless steel grades. From the results of the parametric study, strength reduction factor equations are proposed. The strengths obtained from reduction factor equations are first compared to the strengths calculated from the equations recently proposed for cold-formed carbon steel lipped channel-sections. It is demonstrated that the strength reduction factor equations proposed for cold-formed carbon steel are unconservative for the stainless steel grades by up to 17%. New coefficients for web crippling strength reduction factor equations are then proposed that can be applied to all three stainless steel grades.

Assessment of various nonlocal higher order theories for the bending and buckling behavior of functionally graded nanobeams

Abstract: In this paper, various nonlocal higher-order shear deformation beam theories that consider the size dependent effects in Functionally Graded Material (FGM) beam are examined. The presented theories fulfill the zero traction boundary conditions on the top and bottom surface of the beam and a shear correction factor is not required. Hamilton's principle is used to derive equation of motion as well as related boundary condition. The Navier solution is applied to solve the simply supported boundary conditions and exact formulas are proposed for the bending and static buckling. A parametric study is also included to investigate the effect of gradient index, length scale parameter and length-to-thickness ratio (aspect ratio) on the bending and the static buckling characteristics of FG nanobeams.

Shear capacity of stud shear connectors with initial damage: Experiment, FEM model and theoretical formulation

Abstract: Initial damage to a stud due to corrosion, fatigue, unexpected overloading, a weld defect or other factors could degrade the shear capacity of the stud. Based on typical push-out tests, a FEM model and theoretical formulations were proposed in this study. Six specimens with the same geometric dimensions were tested to investigate the effect of the damage degree and location on the static behavior and shear capacity of stud shear connectors. The test results indicated that a reduction of up to 36.6% and 62.9% of the section area of the shank could result in a dropping rate of 7.9% and 57.2%, respectively, compared to the standard specimen shear capacity. Numerical analysis was performed to simulate the push-out test and validated against test results. A parametrical study was performed to further investigate the damage degree and location on the shear capacity of studs based on the proposed numerical model. It was demonstrated that the shear capacity was not sensitive to the damage degree when the damage section was located at 0.5d, where d is the shank diameter, from the stud root, even if the stud had a significant reduction in area. Finally, a theoretical formula with a reduction factor K was proposed to consider the reduction of the shear capacity due to the presence of initial damage. Calculating K was accomplished in two ways: a linear relationship and a square relationship with the damage degree corresponding to the shear capacity dominated by the section area and the nominal diameter of the damaged stud. This coefficient was applied using Eurocode 4, AASHTO LRFD (2014) and GB50017-2003 (2003) and compared with the test results found in the literature. It was found that the proposed method produced good predictions of the shear capacity of stud shear connectors with initial damage.

Experimental investigation for failure analysis of steel beams with web openings

Abstract: This paper presents an experimental study on the behaviour of steel beams with different types of web openings. Steel beams with web openings became progressively more accepted as a well-organized structural form in steel construction since their existence. Their complicated design and profiling method provides better flexibility in beam proportioning for strength, depth, size and location of holes. The objective of this study is to carry out the experiments on steel beams with different types of web openings and performed non-linear finite element (FE) analysis of the beams that were considered in the experimental study in order to determine their ultimate load capacity and failure modes for comparison. Ten full scale models of steel beam with web openings have been tested in the experimental investigation. The finite element method has been used to predict their entire response to increasing values of external loading until they lose their load carrying capacity. FE model of each specimen that is utilized in the experimental studies is carried out. These models are used to simulate the experimental work to verify test results and to investigate the nonlinear behaviour of failure modes such as local buckling, lateral torsional buckling, web-post buckling, shear buckling and Vierendeel bending of beams.

Experimental and analytical performance evaluation of steel beam to concrete-encased composite column with unsymmetrical steel section joints

Abstract: The seismic performance of steel beam to concrete-encased composite column with unsymmetrical steel section joints is investigated and reported within this paper. Experimental and analytical evaluation were conducted on a total of 8 specimens with T-shaped and L-shaped steel section under lateral cyclic loading and axial compression. The test parameters included concrete strength, stirrup ratio and axial compression ratio. The response of the specimens was presented in terms of their hysterisis loop behavior, stress distribution, joint shear strength, and performance degradation. The experiment indicated good structural behavior and good seismic performance. In addition, a three-dimensional nonlinear finite-element analysis simulating was conducted to simulate their seismic behaviors. The finite-element analysis incorporated both bond-slip relationship and crack interface interaction between steel and concrete. The results were also compared with the test data, and the analytical prediction of joint shear strength was satisfactory for both joints with T-shaped and L-shaped steel section columns. The steel beam to concrete-encased composite column with unsymmetrical steel section joints can develop stable hysteretic response and large energy absorption capacity by providing enough stirrups and decreased spacing of transverse ties in column.

Dynamic assessment of a FRP suspension footbridge through field testing and finite element modelling

Abstract: The use of advanced fibre composite materials in bridge engineering offers alternative solutions to structural problems compared to traditional construction materials. Advanced composite or fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) materials have high strength to weight ratios, which can be especially beneficial where dead load or material handling considerations govern a design. However, the reduced weight and stiffness of FRP footbridges results in generally poorer dynamic performance, and vibration serviceability is likely to govern their design to avoid the footbridge being "too lively". This study investigates the dynamic behaviour of the 51.3 m span Wilcott FRP suspension footbridge. The assessment is performed through a combination of field testing and finite element analysis, and the measured performance of the bridge is being used to calibrate the model through an updating procedure. The resulting updated model allowed detailed interpretation of the results. It showed that non-structural members such as the parapets can influence the dynamic behaviour of slender, lightweight footbridges, and consequently their contribution must be included during the dynamic assessment of a structure. The test data showed that the FRP footbridge is prone to pedestrian induced vibrations, although the measured response levels were lower than limits specified in relevant standards.

Mitigation of seismic drift response of braced frames using short yielding-core BRBs

Abstract: Buckling-restrained braced frames (BRBFs) are commonly used as the lateral force-resisting systems in building structures in the seismic regions. The nearly-symmetric hysteretic response and the delayed brace core fracture of buckling-restrained braces (BRBs) under the axial cyclic loading provide the adequate lateral force and deformation capacity to BRBFs under the earthquake excitation. However, the smaller axial stiffness of BRBs result in the undesirable higher residual drift response of BRBFs in the post-earthquake scenario. Two alternative approaches are investigated in this study to improve the elastic axial stiffness of BRBs, namely, (i) by shortening the yielding cores of BRBs; and (ii) by reducing the BRB assemblies and adding the elastic brace segments in series. In order to obtain the limiting yielding core lengths of BRBs, a modified approach based on Coffin-Manson relationship and the higher mode compression buckling criteria has been proposed in this study. Both non-linear static and dynamic analyses are carried out to analytically evaluate the seismic response of BRBFs fitted with short-core BRBs of two medium-rise building frames. Analysis results showed that the proposed brace systems are effective in reducing the inter-story and residual drift response of braced frames without any significant change in the story shear and the displacement ductility demands.

Effect of Levy Flight on the discrete optimum design of steel skeletal structures using metaheuristics

Abstract: Metaheuristic algorithms in general make use of uniform random numbers in their search for optimum designs. Levy Flight (LF) is a random walk consisting of a series of consecutive random steps. The use of LF instead of uniform random numbers improves the performance of metaheuristic algorithms. In this study, three discrete optimum design algorithms are developed for steel skeletal structures each of which is based on one of the recent metaheuristic algorithms. These are biogeography-based optimization (BBO), brain storm optimization (BSO), and artificial bee colony optimization (ABC) algorithms. The optimum design problem of steel skeletal structures is formulated considering LRFD-AISC code provisions and W-sections for frames members and pipe sections for truss members are selected from available section lists. The minimum weight of steel structures is taken as the objective function. The number of steel skeletal structures is designed by using the algorithms developed and effect of LF is investigated. It is noticed that use of LF results in up to 14% lighter optimum structures.

Thermoelastic dynamic analysis of wavy carbon nanotube reinforced cylinders under thermal loads

Abstract: In this work, thermoelastic dynamic behavior of functionally graded carbon nanotube reinforced composite (FG-CNTRC) cylinders subjected to mechanical pressure loads, uniform temperature environment or thermal gradient loads is investigated by a mesh-free method. The material properties and thermal stress wave propagation of the nanocomposite cylinders are derived after solving of the transient thermal equation and obtaining of the time history of temperature field of the cylinders. The nanocomposite cylinders are made of a polymer matrix and wavy single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). The volume fraction of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are assumed variable along the radial direction of the axisymmetric cylinder. Also, material properties of the polymer and CNT are assumed temperature-dependent and mechanical properties of the nanocomposite are estimated by a micro mechanical model in volume fraction form. In the mesh-free analysis, moving least squares shape functions are used to approximate temperature and displacement fields in the weak form of motion equation and transient thermal equation, respectively. Also, transformation method is used to impose their essential boundary conditions. Effects of waviness, volume fraction and distribution pattern of CNT, temperature of environment and direction of thermal gradient loads are investigated on the thermoelastic dynamic behavior of FG-CNTRC cylinders.

A functionally graded magneto-thermoelastic half space with memory-dependent derivatives heat transfer

Abstract: In this work, the model of magneto-thermoelasticity based on memory-dependent derivative (MDD) is applied to a one-dimensional thermal shock problem for a functionally graded half-space whose surface is assumed to be traction free and subjected to an arbitrary thermal loading. The Lame's modulii are taken as functions of the vertical distance from the surface of thermoelastic perfect conducting medium in the presence of a uniform magnetic field. Laplace transform and the perturbation techniques are used to derive the solution in the Laplace transform domain. A numerical method is employed for the inversion of the Laplace transforms. The effects of the time-delay on the temperature, stress and displacement distribution for different linear forms of Kernel functions are discussed. Numerical results are represented graphically and discussed.

Dynamic analysis method for the progressive collapse of long-span spatial grid structures

Abstract: In the past, the progressive collapse resulting from local failures during accidents has caused many tragedies and loss of life. Although long-span spatial grid structures are characterised by a high degree of static indeterminacy, the sudden failure of key members may lead to a catastrophic progressive collapse. For this reason, it is especially necessary to research the progressive collapse resistance capacity of long-span spatial grid structures. This paper presents an evaluation method of important members and a novel dynamic analysis method for simulating the progressive collapse of long-span spatial grid structures. Engineering cases were analysed to validate these proposed method. These proposed methods were eventually implemented in the progressive collapse analysis of the main stadium for the Universiade Sports Center. The roof of the structure was concluded to have good resistance against progressive collapse. The novel methods provide results close to practice and are especially suitable for the progressive collapse analysis of long-span spatial grid structures.

Analysis of circular steel tube confined UHPC stub columns

Abstract: The use of ultra high performance concrete (UHPC) in composite columns offers numerous structural benefits, and has received recent research attention. However, the information regarding the behavior of steel tube confined concrete (STCC) columns employing UHPC has been extremely limited. Thus, this paper presents an overview of previous experimental studies on circular STCC columns with taking into account various concrete strengths to point out their distinctive features. The effect of the confinement factor and the diameter to thickness ratio on both strength and ductility in circular STCC columns employing UHPC was investigated. The applicability of current design codes such as EC4, AISC, AIJ and some available analytical models for concrete confined by steel tube was also validated by the comparison of ultimate loads between the prediction and the test results of Schneider (2006) and Xiong (2012). To predict the stress-strain curves for confined UHPC in circular STCC stub columns, a simplified model was proposed and verified by the comparison with experimental stress-strain curves.

Push-out test on the one end welded corrugated-strip connectors in steel-concrete-steel sandwich structure

Abstract: Current form of Corrugated-strip connectors are not popular due to the fact that the two ends of this form need to be welded to steel face plates. To overcome this difficulty, a new system is proposed in this work. In this system, bi-directional corrugated-strip connectors are used in pairs, and only one of their ends is welded to the steel face plates on each side. The other end is embedded in the concrete core. To assemble the system, common welding devices are required, and welding process can be performed in the construction sites. By performing the Push-out test under static loading, the authors experimentally assess the effects of geometric parameters on ductility, failure modes and the ultimate shear strength of the aforesaid connectors. For this purpose, sixteen experimental samples are prepared and investigated. For fifteen of these samples, one end of the shear connectors is welded to steel face plates, and the other end is embedded in the concrete. Another experimental sample is prepared in which both ends are welded to the steel face plates. According to the achieved results, several relations are proposed for predicting the ultimate shear strength and load vs. interlayer slip (load-slip) behavior of corrugated-strip connectors. Moreover, these formulas are compared with those of the well-known codes and standards. Accordingly, it is concluded that the authors' relations are more reliable.

Experimental capacity of perforated cold-formed steel open sections under compression and bending

Abstract: This study evaluates the reliability of present European codes in predicting the collapse load of columns made with perforated cold-formed steel (CFS) profiles under combined axial load and bending. To this aim, a series of experimental tests on slender open-section specimens have been performed at varying load eccentricity. Preliminarily, stub column tests have also been performed to calculate the effective section properties of the investigated profile. By comparison of experimental data with code-specified M-N strength domains, the authors demonstrate that present code formulations may underestimate the collapse load of thin-walled perforated open sections. The study is the first step of a wider experimental and numerical study aimed at better describing strength domains of perforated CFS open sections.

Damped frequencies of precast modular steel-concrete composite railway track slabs

Abstract: This paper presents unprecedented damped oscillation behaviours of a precast steel-concrete composite slab panel for track support. The steel-concrete composite slab track is an innovative slab track, a form of ballastless track which is becoming increasingly attractive to asset owners as they seek to reduce lifecycle costs and deal with increasing rail traffic speeds. The slender nature of the slab panel due to its reduced depth of construction makes it susceptible to vibration problems. The aim of the study is driven by the need to address the limited research available to date on the dynamic behaviour of steel-concrete composite slab panels for track support. Free vibration analysis of the track slab has been carried out using ABAQUS. Both undamped and damped eigenfrequencies and eigenmodes have been extracted using the Lancsoz method. The fundamental natural frequencies of the slab panel have been identified together with corresponding mode shapes. To investigate the sensitivity of the natural frequencies and mode shapes, parametric studies have been established, considering concrete strength and mass and steel\'s modulus of elasticity. This study is the world first to observe crossover phenomena that result in the inversion of the natural orders without interaction. It also reveals that replacement of the steel with aluminium or carbon fibre sheeting can only marginally reduce the natural frequencies of the slab panel.

Free vibrations of precast modular steel-concrete composite railway track slabs

Abstract: This paper highlights a study undertaken on the free vibration of a precast steel-concrete composite slab panel for track support. The steel-concrete composite slab track is an evolvement from the slab track, a form of ballastless track which is becoming increasingly attractive to asset owners as they seek to reduce lifecycle costs and deal with increasing rail traffic speeds. The slender nature of the slab panel due to its reduced depth of construction makes it susceptible to vibration problems. The aim of the study is driven by the need to address the limited research available to date on the dynamic behaviour of steel-concrete composite slab panels for track support. Free vibration analysis of the track slab has been carried out using ABAQUS. Both eigenfrequencies and eigenmodes have been extracted using the Lanczos method. The fundamental natural frequencies of the slab panel have been identified together with corresponding mode shapes. To investigate the sensitivity of the natural frequencies and mode shapes, parametric studies have been established, considering concrete strength and mass and steel

Local and global buckling condition of all-steel buckling restrained braces

Abstract: Braces are one of the retrofitting systems of structure under earthquake loading. Buckling restrained braces (BRBs) are one of the very efficient braces for lateral loads. One of the key needs for a desirable and acceptable behavior of bucklingrestraining brace members under intensive loading is that it prevents total buckling until the bracing member tolerates enough plastic deformation and ductility. This paper presents the results of a set of analysis by finite element method on buckling restrained braces in which the filler materials within the restraining member have been removed. These braces contain core as the conventional BRBs, but they have a different buckling restrained system. The purpose of this analysis is conducting a parametric study on various empty spaces between core and restraining member, the effect of friction between core and restraining member and applying initial deformation to brace system to investigate the global buckling behavior of these braces. The results of analysis indicate that the flexural stiffness of restraining member, regardless of the amount of empty space, can influence the global buckling behavior of brace significantly.

Multi-response optimization of crashworthiness parameters of bi-tubular structures

Abstract: This article aims at presenting multi objective optimization of parameters that affect crashworthiness characteristics of bi-tubular structures using Taguchi method with grey relational analysis. To design the experiments, the L9 orthogonal array has been used and based on that, the inner tubes have been fabricated by varying the three influence factors such as reference diameter, length difference and numbers of sides of the polygon with three levels, but all the outer cylinders have the same diameter and length 90 mm and 135 mm respectively. Then, the tailor made bi-tubular steel structures were subjected into quasi static axial compression. From the test results it is found that the crushing behaviors of bi-tubular structures with different combinations were fairly significant. The important responses (crashworthiness indicators) specific energy absorption and crush force efficiency have been evaluated from load - displacement curve. Finally optimal levels of parameters were identified using grey relational analysis, and significance of parameters was determined by analysis of variance. The optimum crashworthiness parameters are reference diameter 80 mm, length difference 0 mm and number of sides of polygon is 3, i.e., triangle within the selected nine bi-tube combinations.

Concrete-filled rectangular hollow section X joint with Perfobond Leister rib structural performance study: Ultimate and fatigue experimental Investigation

Abstract: This paper presents a series of ultimate and fatigue experimental investigation on concrete-filled rectangular hollow section (CRHS) X joints with Perfobond Leister rib (PBR) under tension. A total of 15 specimens were fabricated, in which 12 specimens were tested under ultimate tension and 3 specimens were investigated in fatigue test. Different parameters including PBR stiffening, brace-to-chord ratio (β) and inclined angle (&$952;) were considered in the test. Each joint was tested to failure under tension load. Obtained from test result, PBR was found to improve the tension strength and fatigue durability of CRHS joint substantially. Concrete dowel consisted by PBR and concrete inside the chord stiffened the joint, which leaded to a combination failure mode of punching shear and chord plastification of CRHS joint under tension. Finite element analysis validated the compound failure mode. Stress concentration on typical spot of CRHS joint was mitigated by PBR which was observed from fatigue test. Initial fatigue crack presented in CRHS joint with PBR also differentiated with the counterpart without PBR.

Deterioration in strength of studs based on two-parameter fatigue failure criterion

Abstract: In the concept of two-parameter fatigue failure criterion, the material fatigue failure is determined by the damage degree and the current stress level. Based on this viewpoint, a residual strength degradation model for stud shear connectors under fatigue loads is proposed in this study. First, existing residual strength degradation models and test data are summarized. Next, three series of 11 push-out specimen tests according to the standard push-out test method in Eurocode-4 are performed: the static strength test, the fatigue endurance test and the residual strength test. By introducing the "two-parameter fatigue failure criterion," a residual strength calculation model after cyclic loading is derived, considering the nonlinear fatigue damage and the current stress condition. The parameters are achieved by fitting the data from this study and some literature data. Finally, through verification using several literature reports, the results show that the model can better describe the strength degradation law of stud connectors.

Connections between RC beam and square tubed-RC column under axial compression: Experiments

Abstract: The square tubed-reinforced concrete (TRC) column is a kind of special concrete-filled steel tube (CFST) columns, in which the outer thin-walled steel tube does not pass through the beam-column joint, so that the longitudinal steel reinforcing bars in the RC beam are continuous through the connection zone. However, there is a possible decrease of the axial bearing capacity at the TRC column to RC beam connection due to the discontinuity of the column tube, which is a concern to engineers. 24 connections and 7 square TRC columns were tested under axial compression. The primary parameters considered in the tests are: (1) connection location (corner, exterior and interior); (2) dimensions of RC beam cross section; (3) RC beam type (with or without horizontal haunches); (4) tube type (with or without stiffening ribs). The test results show that all specimens have relatively high load-carrying capacity and satisfactory ductility. With a proper design, the connections exhibit higher axial resistance and better ductility performance than the TRC column. The feasibility of this type of connections is verified.