Structural performance of novel aluminium alloy gusset joints for connecting four I-section beam members

Abstract

This paper presents the seismic behaviour of an aluminium alloy grid shell structure with due consideration of the rotation performance of its two novel gusset joints. The two novel aluminium alloy gusset joints were designed for connecting cross-arranged I-section beam members by stainless steel swage-locking pins and stainless steel bolts. One full-scale gusset joint was tested under monotonic loading, with the failure mode, load-displacement response and stiffness classification fully reported. The solid-based refined finite element (FE) model of the joint was developed by using Abaqus program and validated against test results. Based on the validated FE model, parametric studies were performed to investigate the effect of key parameters, including the shape of gusset plates, the preload of fasteners, angle shear connector configurations, and the number and layout of pins, on the structural performance of the novel gusset joints. The failure modes, moment-rotation curves, initial stiffness and ultimate design resistance were identified and compared in groups for joint design optimization. The cyclic behaviour of two optimal gusset joints was numerically analysed, and then incorporated in the fibre-based macro FE model of the aluminium alloy grid shell structure developed by using OpenSees program. The seismic performance of the grid shell structure subjected to different earthquake hazard levels, including the displacement, joint rotation, beam stress and shear base responses, was comprehensively evaluated. Sound earthquake resistance of the aluminium alloy grid shell structure is demonstrated, with safety and reliability of the novel gusset joints used in it.