Cost-effective modeling strategies for the analysis of spliced steel connections

The paper presents several cost-effective modeling strategies that can be used by structural engineers in practice to determine the stresses in the spliced members. The computational efficiency and the modeling effort required for the several modeling options are also discussed. The deformation mechanisms and load transfer for several types of connections are illustrated. Optimization techniques are also presented to economize the computer time for connections with large number of bolts. Results are presented to compare the accuracy of several modeling strategies commonly used in practice. It is shown that for eccentric connections, the flexural bending largely affect the maximum tensile and compressive stresses within the joint. The difference may reach up to 54%. Finally, Experimental comparisons are made with the numerical procedures for typical connection model.