Elasto-plastic finite element analysis of welded truss connections

Abstract

A finite element technique based on an incremental tangent stiffness method is employed herein to analyze the behavior of welded truss connections subjected to combined tension and shear. A computer program named ELAPLAS (ELAsto-PLAStic finite element analysis) is developed to simulate the load–deformation behavior and to predict the ultimate tensile capacity of a structural tee in a welded truss joint subjected to a prescribed transverse shear load. Analytical studies were carried out to investigate the interaction of tension and shear in welded truss connections. The analytical results obtained are compared with available test data to verify the validity of the proposed finite element technique. Results of parametric studies are presented to illustrate the significance of various design parameters in welded truss connections. Such parameters as material properties, thickness variations of structural tee web and flange, and the truss configurations are investigated. As a result of the present work, simple interaction equations of combined tension and shear are developed and suggested for design office use.