Numerical Analysis and Determination of Initial Rotational Stiffness of Bolted Connections

Abstract

This paper deals with the determination of the initial rotational stiffness of some types of bolted connections used in steel structures. The assessment was performed using the finite element method. The connections were classified by their initial rotational stiffness as either rigid, semirigid or pinned according to EN 1993-1-8. The internal forces of a structure can be determined more accurately with the knowledge of connection stiffness which can contribute to the safe and reliable structural design of members.