Finite element analysis on mechanical behavior of flange reinforced connections between wide-flange specially shaped composite columns and steel beams

A parametric model for steel beam to wide-flange specially shaped composite column flange reinforced connection is analyzed by ABAQUS with varying parameters. The results are in good agreement with the experimental ones and the reliability of the calculation method is verified. Then the influence of the geometric parameters of the reinforcing plate on the stiffness, bearing capacity, plastic zone and ductility of the joints is analyzed. The results show that the triangle reinforcing plate can achieve the same effect as the trapezoidal reinforcing plate. The length of the reinforcing plate is 1 to 1.2 times that of the steel beam, the width may be 1/4 to 1/3 height of steel beam, and the thickness may be 1.2 times the steel beam flange thickness.