Numerical investigation on a seismic testing campaign on adjustable pallet rack speed-lock connections

This paper presents numerical simulations of a suite of cantilever seismic tests of speed-lock connections between beam and upright members of adjustable pallet rack systems. The tested specimens differ in the endplate-to-beam weld beads geometric configuration; the experimental results show that each weld configuration leads to different behavior, significantly affecting the connection capacity and ductility. As a result, the performed numerical simulations aim to better understand and deepen these observations. Special attention is paid to the initial (elastic) behavior of the tested assembly, albeit the stress redistribution after the first yielding has also been studied and found to be relevant. The numerical results are satisfactory compared with the experimental ones, and specific remarks are derived. This work is a part of a broader research effort aimed to improve the dissipative seismic behavior of racks; such research activity involves also upright-base plate connections testing, advanced numerical simulation, and proposal of rack ductility behavior factors.

Automated summary

This paper presents numerical simulations of cantilever seismic tests of speed-lock connections between beam and upright members of adjustable pallet rack systems. Different weld configurations lead to different behavior, significantly affecting the connection capacity and ductility. The research aims to better understand and deepen these observations.