The development of a component-based connection element for endplate connections in fire

This paper describes the development of a component-based element for endplate connections in fire. The reported research is part of an ongoing project aimed at understanding joint behaviour in fire. The paper summarises the derivation of the stiffness matrix of this new element, based on a spring model, and the incorporation of the element into the non-linear finite element program Vulcan. It also states the component characteristics that have been used for the individual zones of deformation in an endplate connection. Furthermore, the additional features of the element, necessary for correct response at elevated temperatures, such as the consideration of the temperature distributions across the connection as well as cooling and unloading, are summarised. The proposed element is then used to predict the moment-rotation curves of connection experiments at ambient and elevated temperatures. Finally, the advantages and limitations of the new high-temperature connection element are listed. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.