Numerical investigation of the effects of connection rotational stiffness on block shear capacity of coped beams with a welded end connection

Abstract

In order to investigate the effects of connection rotational stiffness on the block shear capacity of coped beams with welded end connections, a numerical investigation was conducted. Parametric study is conducted based on the validated finite element model. Based on the mechanical model of double angle connection, the pitch and the beam element length-to-angle thickness (L/t) ratio of the outstanding leg are selected as two important parameters to consider the effects of the connection rotational stiffness. The results of parametric study show that the connection rotational stiffness has a great influence on the block shear capacity of coped beams with double welded clip angle connection. The results of parametric study also show the pitch has no significant effect on the block shear capacity. Based on the results of finite element analysis, the design equation proposed by Yam et al. (2007) was modified to account for the effects of the connection rotational stiffness.