Structural performance of boltless beam end connectors

Abstract

This study examines the structural performance of beam end connectors used as connection device in semi-rigid boltless beam-to-column connections (BCCs) in steel pallet racks (SPRs). A total of six types of specimens were tested which were distinguished by the three different types of beam end connector (BEC) thicknesses and two different numbers of tabs in the (BEC). The experimental testing was performed using double-cantilever test method and the moment-rotation (M-θ) behavior of the connections and key failure modes were evaluated. The influence of variation in the thickness and the number of tabs of the BEC on the behavior of connection was also investigated. Increased connector thickness enabled the connector tabs to sustain higher failure moment. The findings showed that by varying the geometrical properties, the stiffness of the connection was affected at a higher rate as compared to the strength of the connection. A non-linear three dimensional (3D) finite element (FE) model was developed to simulate the experimental investigations. The FE model showed a close agreement with experimental results.