Benchmarks for finite element modelling of bolted steel connections

This paper presents part of the results of a study devoted to the analysis of bolted steel connections by means of finite elements. In detail, the paper introduces elementary tee stub connections which are endowed with different plastic failure mechanisms and can be adopted as benchmarks in the validation process of finite element software packages. Moreover, the simulations of these benchmarks performed by means of bricks as well as contact elements allow the properties and results of these elements to be commented upon. Finally, the comparison between computed and measured values permits the effectiveness and degree of accuracy of the proposed finite element models to be mirrored. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.