Proposed analytical models for bolted T-stubs to square hollow section column connection using thread-fixed one-side bolts under tension

A total of ten tests on bolted T-stubs to square hollow section column (SHSC) connection using thread-fixed one-side bolts (TOBs) were conducted. Four failure modes and the corresponding load-displacement curves revealed in tests were discussed. Test results indicated that the tensile strength of the connections was greatly improved by the strengthening measure of backing plates and the corresponding failure mode changed from thread shear failure to SHSC wall yielding. Influence of the bolt diameter, the bolt gauge distance, and the column wall thickness on the failure mode and tensile strength of the connections was presented. The existing models were modified for calculating the yield bending strength of the SHSC wall connected by TOBs. Analytical models for calculating the connection tensile strength corresponding to different failure modes were proposed. Both the yield tensile strength and failure mode of the T-stubs to SHSC connection predicted by the proposed analytical models agree well with the test results.

Automated summary

In this study, ten tests were conducted to investigate the connection between bolted T-stubs and square hollow section column (SHSC) using thread-fixed one-side bolts (TOBs). The results showed that the tensile strength of the connections was significantly improved by the use of backing plates, and the failure mode changed from thread shear failure to SHSC wall yielding. The effects of bolt diameter, bolt gauge distance, and column wall thickness on the failure mode and tensile strength of the connections were also examined.