Investigation of bolted joints of cold-formed steel elements

In this dissertation semi-rigid gusset plate bolted joint is analysed, which is suitable for cold-formed steel element connection. This joint is chosen because of its simplicity and common occurrence in load bearing structures. Main task of the dissertation is to apply component method for both bending moment resistance and rotational stiffness calculation. The joint is investigated as three springs – beam and column bolt groups and gusset plate. Results, which are achieved using component method, are compared with laboratory investigation and finite element modelling data. 

The dissertation consists of introduction, 3 chapters, general conclusions,
references and 2 annexes.

In the introduction author discusses the investigated problem, importance of the thesis and the objective of the research. Author also describes the purpose and tasks of the paper, research methodology, scientific novelty, the practical significance of results examined in the paper and the defended statements. At the end of the introduction author presents his publications on the subject of the defended dissertation, adding the content of the presentations from conferences.

Chapter 1 consists of the summary the relevant literature for this thesis and the review of bolted semi-rigid joints design models of cold-formed steel elements.

In Chapter 2 author discusses the application of component method for semi-rigid joint bending moment resistance and rotational stiffness calculation. This is followed by the method to calculate strength and stiffness of new components.

Chapter 3 is dedicated for the results of experimental investigation, consisting of the laboratory tests and finite element analysis. Investigation techniques are described. Bending moment resistance values, bending moment and rotation curves are presented. This is followed with the results of the calculations using component method, laboratory investigation and finite element modelling and comparing them with each other.

The work presented in this thesis has been published in five published articles: two in the Clarivate Analytics Web of Science database with citation index, one article – in the Clarivate Analytics Web of Science database without citation index, two – in international database. This has also been presented at 4 at national and international conferences, one of which referred by Clarivate Analytics Web of Science database Conference Proceedings database.

Electronic version of the book:

DOI: https://doi.org/10.20334/2019-008-M