Finite element model for rectangular hollow section T joints

Major developments in hardware and software enable researchers and engineers to apply non-linear finite-element analyses to study the behavior of tubular structures. However, to provide reasonable results, constructed finite element models should be verified and validated with experimental data. This article develops a finite element model for high strength steel rectangular hollow section T joints. The joints are considered under in-plane bending moment and axial brace loading. The paper determines the most suitable finite elements and the number of layers in the thickness direction for the numerical assessment of initial stiffness and modeling the whole action-deformation behavior of joints. Finally, the proposed FE model is validated with the series of experimental tests. The validation shows that the developed model properly captures the local behavior of tubular joints and can efficiently serve as a reliable tool in routine numerical analyses.