Experimental tests and numerical models of double side non-welded T RHS truss joints

Abstract

Research on simple laser made T RHS joints is presented. Experimental evidence of such joint behaviour tested in natural scale is described. Geometry and material properties of tested connections are given. For each specimen axial-deflection curves are presented. Yield line local push mechanism on front and front and bottom wall chord section is used to the theoretical estimation of the failure load. Preliminary design models for calculation and prediction of joints resistance is proposed. The comparison between theoretical, numerical models and experimental results is shown. Finally, some conclusions with regard to the possibility of resistance improvement by the double side joint solution are given.