Finite Element Model for RHS Double Chord KJoints

A finite element elasticplastic model for separated double chord gap Kjoints of steel rectangular hollow sections RHS, is presented. The model treats a single chord member as composed of a plate representing the inner web and a channel depicting the top and bottom flanges and the outer web, respectively. Triangular and rectangular flat shell elements are used to discretize the inner web plate, whereas plane stress elements are employed for the branch members. The channel consists of a grillage of beam elements. The analysis extends beyond the elastic limit and accounts for strain hardening and material nonlinearity. A comparison of theoretical predictions with the experimental results of 12 Kjoint specimens of a previous study shows fair agreement.