Three-Dimensional Nonlinear Finite-Element Analysis of Wood–Steel Bolted Joints Subjected to Large Deformations

AbstractThis paper numerically models the behavior of double-shear, single-bolted joints in wood-steel structures when subjected to very large deformations and compares results with test information. A three-dimensional finite-element model is developed of the main Douglas-fir wood member, steel side plates, bolt, washers, and nut. The model accounts for friction, bolt clearance, progressive damage in the wood, nonlinear and inelastic behavior in the steel bolts and side plates, and complete (linear and nonlinear) compressive constitutive response parallel to the grain in the wood. Hashin’s 3-D failure criteria are used to predict the onset and type of damage. Once failure is detected, and its mode identified at a particular location, material properties there are degraded to simulate the loss of load carrying capacity. The predicted load versus displacement results correlate with experiment. The present numerically determined displacements exceed by seven times those previously reported for bolted wood joints.