Optimisation of FE parameters used in fine numerical modelling of steel T-stub elements

In steel frame buildings the role of the beam-to-column connection is crucial for assuring structural integrity, and due to their complexity and non-linear behaviour, the bolted configurations of this type of connection are usually the most vulnerable elements of a building. In order to assess the behaviour of a bolted steel connection, the simplified model of the equivalent T-stub is used. Based on previous experimental studies on a parametric set of T-stubs, the aim of this study is to optimise a numerical model in order to validate the experimental data and produce a fully calibrated finite element model,created with Abaqus/Explicit FE software package. To model properly the nonlinear behaviour of the component, an analysis of the properties of the model was conducted regarding the finite elements properties, analysis properties and discretization. The solid finite element properties considered were such as the number of nodes, integration, contact and true stress-strain material definition, including damage criteria. In this context, the assembly was subjected to a transient quasi-static explicit FE analysis using mass-scaling features. The results are expressed by comparison of Force-displacement curves obtain via numerical analysis and experimental testing