Theoretical Prediction on the Shear Capacities of Shear Connectors in Steel Column Bases

Abstract

Shear connectors are extensively used in steel column bases of steel structures to transfer loading from superstructure to concrete foundations, however the behavior and shear capacity of the steel shear connector subject to complex external loading are not well understood. This paper presents an approach for theoretically predicting the shear capacities as well as behavior of the shear connector in steel column bases subject to external loading such as both shear force and bending moment at the top. The load-displacement behavior at the top of the shear connector and the internal force distribution along the depth of the connector are also investigated at various states with different cases of boundary conditions. Two states of concrete compressive strain, i.e. the critical and ultimate states, are considered for evaluating the critical and ultimate shear capacities of the shear connector. The theoretical predictions for the behavior and load capacities of the shear connector are then compared with finite element results. The results from the verification study show that the proposed approach can provide satisfactory theoretical predictions for the behavior of the shear connector.