Steel bolted connections subjected to cyclic and monotonic loads

Steel moment frames are structural systems heavily used in different types of buildings around the world. In this type of structure, the beams and columns are joined by moment connections; therefore, the connections play an important role in determining the seismic behavior of the structure, allowing the structure to reach the required level of ductility without structural damage. In a similar way, incremental drift in structures is affected by the flexibility and rotation of the connections. In order to improve the seismic behavior of steel structures it is important to limit excessive rotations and ensure a ductile failure mechanism.The present project is focused on the cyclic behavior of steel connections. The project involved the study of steel connections through laboratory tests and advanced numerical analyzes using the Finite Element software Abaqus. The present project aims to develop an improved and robust 3D detailed numerical approach capable of accurately replicating the behavior of bolted connections subjected to both monotonic and cyclic loads. The research project will include a consistent set of local and global laboratory tests to study the monotonic and cyclical behavior of selected connections and to calibrate advanced numerical models.