Analytical Model for the Initial Rotational Stiffness of a Double Split Tee Connection

초록

A double split tee connection is commonly considered a partially restrained connection that shows various behavioral characteristics based on the combination of T-stub thickness, bolt gauge distance, and beam and column stiffness ration. Among these parameters, the T-stub thickness and bolt gauge distance have been considered the main parameters affecting the behavior of the connection. Accordingly, many researchers have proposed an analytical model for the prediction of the initial rotational stiffness of a double split tee connection. Such analytical model, however, has not yet been proven to be accurate due to several phenomena, such as complicated stress distribution, contact and bearing phenomena, and prying action on high-strength bolts. Therefore, this study aimed to propose an improved prediction model for the initial rotational stiffness of a double split tee connection. Towards this end, three-dimensional nonlinear finite element analysis was performed, and the proposed analytical model was validated by comparing its results with those of the works of other researchers.