Finite Element Analysis for Unstiffened Overlapped CHS KK-Joints Welded in Different Ways

The question whether hidden weld in unstiffened overlapped CHS KK-joints is welded or not is not clearly metioned in current code for design of steel structures(GB50017-2003).This paper mainly analyzes the influence of chord-to-brace diameter ratio β,diameter-to-ply ratio γ and brace-to-chord ply ratio τ on the ultimate bearing capacity of the joints with the hidden weld welded in two different ways.the influence of welded and non-welded hidden welds of the joints on hysteretic property under low frequency loading is analyzed,and hystertic loops of the joints are obtained by using the ANSYS finite element method.The hidden weld of the joints,no matter which is same side brace or opposite brace,only has slight influence on the failure modes and limit capacity of the joints.Hysteretic property of the joints in which the hidden weld is non-welded is much better than the welded,so in project the joints with the hidden weld can be non-welded.