Tensile and shear performance of rotary inter-module connection for modular steel buildings

Abstract

Because of the advantages of construction speed and efficiency, modular steel buildings (MSBs) have been increasingly used in mid-to high-rise buildings with repetitive units. Different form of connection and mechanical performance of the inter-module connection of MSBs from the traditional structure have always been remained a research hotspot. In this study, the mechanical performance of an innovative rotary inter-module connection was studied mainly through two tensile and two shear resistance tests. Then, the parametric analysis was carried out through the finite element analysis. The critical components of the connection under the tensile load were the corner fitting and the bottom plate of the lower rotating part, whereas, during the shear performance, the top plate of the lower corner fitting played a vital role. The edge yield of the bottom plate of the lower rotating part was used as the basis for deriving the formula of the tensile bearing capacity of the connection. Finally, a simplified calculation model was developed, and the formulas for tensile and shear bearing capacities were derived and verified.