Bearing Capacity Analysis on Improved Slotted End Plate Connections

Full-scale of U-type and grooved-type slotted end plate (SEP) connections are tested to determine their failure modes and damage mechanisms under ultimate loading. Simulate on mechanical behaviors of U-type and grooved-type SEP connections under compression using finite element software ANSYS based on the experimental research. Obtain load-vertical displacement curves of the SEP connections, and compare with the experimental results to determine the validity of the model. On this basis, this paper provide the improved SEP connections, and contrast with the U-type and grooved-type SEP connections. The results indicate that finite element results are in good agreement with experimental data. Difference of the ultimate load between the test specimen and finite element model is less than 10%. The finite element can simulate mechanical behaviors of the SEP connections better. The ultimate bearing capacity of the UC-type SEP connected joints is significantly higher than the U-type and grooved-type, which shows the improved SEP Connections is reasonable and effective. SEP is the main factor of the U-type and grooved-type SEP Connections’ ultimate load, tube is controlling factor of the UC-type SEP connected joints.