3D macro-element for innovative plug-and-play joints

This paper presents the development, implementation, and validation of a macro-element suitable for the linear analysis of innovative 3D plug-and-play joints between tubular columns and lightweight steel truss-girders. The macro-element is based on the component method, accounts for the three-dimensional interaction between the tube faces,...

Influence of geometrical imperfections and residual stresses on the reliability of high strength steel welded I-section columns using Monte Carlo simulation

This paper aims to assess the influence of geometrical imperfections and residual stresses on the reliability of the stability design rules for steel columns in Eurocode 3 considering a full probabilistic approach and further validate the new buckling curves in the scope of the ongoing revision of the Structural Eurocodes. A reliability...

Mechanical properties of 3D printed CMT-WAAM 316 LSi stainless steel walls

The use of 3D printed stainless steel requires a deep knowledge of its mechanical properties. This paper presents material characterisation of 316LSi austenitic stainless-steel coupons manufactured by CMT-WAAM, considering different deposition directions. The specimens were tested according to ISO 6892-1, the fractures surfaces were examined...

Design of pin connections between steel members

The design of pin connections between steel members has been established for many years in design codes. However, recently, in the scope of the revision of Eurocode 3, Part 1–8 (EN 1993–1-8), questions were raised concerning the safety of the corresponding design verifications. This paper identifies two main aspects that require revision,...

Effects of state-of-the-art residual stress models on the member and local stability behaviour

Residual stresses have considerable effect on both the local and the member stability behaviour of steel structures. Previous studies have shown that the structural stability behaviour depends on both the distribution and the amplitude of the residual stresses. The residual stress distribution is affected by the cross-section geometry, the...

Influence of cold-formed angle on high strength steel material properties

This paper describes a study of the S650 high strength steel material properties including the effect of cold-formed angle. Coupon specimens with different cold-formed angles (90°, 100°, 120°, 140°, 160°and 180°) and different thicknesses (4 mm and 6 mm) were examined. Relationships between cold-formed angle and yield stress as well as...

Influence of execution tolerances for friction connections in circular and polygonal towers for wind converters

Friction connections with long open slotted holes have been proven to be a competitive alternative to the conventional flange connections in steel tubular towers for wind energy converters. As full-scale tests are not available, results of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) of the real-scale tower geometry are used in this paper to investigate the...