Finite element modeling of bolted steel connections designed by double channel

In this paper an investigation based on tests and a finite element modeling of the behaviour of a double channel beam-to-column connection subjected to in plane bending moment and shear is presented. The results of tests conducted at the Istanbul Technical University were briefly described and presented for comparison. Simulation of the tests was carried out by means of a nonlinear finite element software ANSYS 5.5.1 version. Wide flange I section column, double channel beam section, bolt components were represented in three-dimensional forms and material nonlinearity with strain hardening were taken into account. Boundary conditions between the bolts, double channels and the column section were modeled with contact elements which are capable of representing the actual behaviour. The results of finite element model are compared with that of the reference tests.