ABSTRACT
K-joints made of cold-formed structural hollow sections were studied using a nonlinear finite element method. The main objective was to develop a material model that can be implemented in FE-analysis of cold-formed hollow section so that the static strength of joints could be reliably evaluated. Comparing the results from FEA with the results obtained from laboratory tests, the predictions followed the measured load-deformation curve very well. However, the material model obtained using simple coupon tests was not accurate in predicting the ultimate deformation capacity of the joint, at least at low temperatures. Further work is needed in order to improve the FE material model for predicting the ultimate behavior of cold-formed structural section joints and thus reducing the need for laboratory tests.
