Ultimate strength of single shear two-bolted connections with austenitic stainless steel

Abstract

This paper has carried out finite element (FE) modeling and analysis in order to predict and estimate the structural behaviors such as ultimate strength, fracture mode and curling occurrence of austenitic stainless steel single shear bolted connections fabricated with two bolts (2 rows x1 column bolt array). The data of existing test results for the calibration of numerical simulation were utilized. Prediction results obtained from finite element (FE) analysis were compared with the test results of single shear bolted connections with stainless steel and the validity of numerical models for predicting the ultimate behaviors of connections was verified. Curling (Out of plane deformation) caused strength reduction in both test and analysis results. Parametric studies have also been conducted with other extended variables of edge distance and end distance. The conditions of curling occurrence in terms of end distance and edge distance were suggested from assumed FE models and modified strength formula was proposed.