Bolted End-Plate Connections Verification (EC)

This study investigates the assumptions of distribution of forces in bolt rows at an end-plate connection. 

EN 1993-1-8:2005, Clause 6.2.7.2(9) states:

Where the effective design tension resistance F_tx,Rd of one of the previous bolt rows x is greater than 1.9 F_t,Rd​, the effective design tension resistance F_tr,Rd for bolt row r should be reduced, if necessary, in order to ensure that:

$$F_{tx,Rd} \cdot \frac{h_r}{h_x}$$

where:

• h_x is the distance from bolt row x to the center of compression;
• x  is the bolt row farthest from the center of compression that has a design tension resistance greater than 1.9 F_t,Rd.

Three cases are investigated:

1. Resistance of each bolt row was always below the limit of 1.9⋅F_t,Rd. Plastic force distribution is assumed in the component method.
2. The limit of 1.9⋅F_t,Rd was reached already in the first bolt row. Elastic force distribution is assumed in the component method.
3. The limit of 1.9⋅F_t,Rd was reached in the second bolt row below the beam flange. Elastic force distribution is assumed in the rows below in the component method.

The results include a comparison of bolt forces (CBFEM) or T-stub resistances (CM) in each bolt row:

The resistances determined using the two methods, CM and CBFEM, are in close agreement:

Read the full report in the attached pdf.

The results of each case, along with the validation calculation example, are available in this zip folder:

End_plates_verification_S355.zip