Finite element analysis of the cyclic behaviour of steel end-plate connections

In recent years, the attention of many researchers has concentrated on evaluating the cyclic response of Semi-Rigid Connections. Pursuing their improvement we aim at developing a new methodology based on F.E. techniques with a combination of several other methods to extend the component-based design philosophy to the end plate connection. Thus, the first part of the paper is devoted to a presentation of the previous theoretical models for modelling this type of connection. The second part comprises the experimental test and the four steps necessary to build the model. In this part, the experimental procedure for studying the behaviour of an isolated T-stub as the main component of an end plate connection under monotonic and cyclic loading is first presented. Then, the monotonic and cyclic F.E. models of these specimens are discussed and validated. Next, a mathematical energy balance model is developed to reproduce the cyclic response. This model is the basis of a spring model which predicts the behaviour of an isolated end plate connection. The spring model is presented in the final part.