ABSTRACT
This paper presents recent results of a parametric study on multiplanar K-joints with gap made of rectangular hollow sections. This analysis is based on Finite Element calculations verified by experiments.
Regarding the examined load cases axial load, in-plane bending moments (IPB) and out-of-plane bending moments (OPB), the parametric studies yielded the following results:
in dependence of the load case, the maximum strain concentration factors occur mainly at one corner,
for all joints examined the maximum SNCF of the braces are below 5.0
regarding axial load and IPB, maximum SNCF of 11.0 were found for the chord member, regarding OPB, the SNCF are below 5.0.
Based on these results, parametric formulae for the calculation of strain concentration factors can be developped which are accurate enough from the technical point of view. Subsequently, characteristic SNCF diagrams for different load cases and in dependence of the main geometrical parameters are given.
