Numerical Models Validation of Cracked Square Hollow Section (SHS) Y- and K-Joints

Abstract

To validate the accuracy of finite-element models of cracked square hollow section (SHS) Y- and K-joints, two full-scale precracked specimens were tested under static incremental loads up to failure. The load-displacement curves were plotted during the tests, and a set of linear variable displacement transducers (LVDTs) were used to record the crack mouth opening displacements (CMOD) at the deepest points, whereas the crack extension was captured using the standard Alternating Current Potential Drop (ACPD) technique. The experimental results are compared with the corresponding numerical results obtained using the nonlinear finite-element method. Both sets of results show good agreement with maximum percentage differences of 7.15 and 7.96% for the plastic collapse loads and crack mouth opening displacements, respectively. Hence, the numerical model adopted previously for the cracked SHS T-joints is robust and can also be used to estimate the plastic collapse load Pc and crack driving force Jep of any uniplanar tubular cracked Y- and K-joints.