Finite Element Formulation for Semi-Rigid Beam- To-Column Connections Using Potential Energy Approach

Abstract

This paper presents the behaviour of semi-rigid connections in steel frame analysis by utilizing the total potential energy principal. A finite element model is proposed to consider the behaviour of the semi-rigid connection. The proposed finite element method is compared with the existing method proposed by other researchers. Both linear and non-linear analyses are performed to acquire the solution of steel frame under elastic condition. The results of comparison agreed well with other method proposed by other researchers. The results of the proposed finite element method is also compared with the available experimental results and found that the linear analysis agrees well with the experimental results. Therefore, it is concluded that the behaviour of the semi-rigid connection is steel framing can be predicted using potential energy approach.