Download the model of 'rigid and pinned connections' here and open it with the structural FEA software RFEM 6.
This model is used in the webinar 'Analysis of Steel Joints Using FE Model in RFEM 6 ' on Aug 10, 2022 (Arabic).
Steel Frame with Rigid and Pinned Connections
Number of Nodes | 8 |
Number of Lines | 7 |
Number of Members | 7 |
Number of Surfaces | 0 |
Number of Solids | 0 |
Number of Load Cases | 2 |
Number of Load Combinations | 2 |
Number of Result Combinations | 0 |
Total Weight | 3.623 tons |
Dimensions (Metric) | 28.000 x 5.000 x 0.000 m |
Dimensions (Imperial) | 91.86 x 16.4 x 0 feet |
You can download this structural model to use it for training purposes or for your projects. However, we do not assume any guarantee or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the model.
- Numerous component types, such as base and end plates, web angles, fin plates, gusset plates, stiffeners, tapers, or ribs for easy input of typical connection situations
- Universally applicable basic components (such as plates, welds, bolts, auxiliary planes) for modeling complex connection situations
- Graphical display of the connection geometry with dynamic updating during the input
- Wide range of cross-section shapes: I-sections, U-sections, angles, T-sections, hollow sections, built-up cross-sections and thin-walled sections
- Library in Dlubal Center with program template connections as well as user-defined templates
- Automatic adaptation of the connection geometry based on the relative arrangement of the components to each other – even in case of subsequent editing of the structural components
In the Steel Joints add-on, you can classify the joint stiffnesses.
In addition to the initial stiffness, the table also shows the limit values for hinged and rigid connections for the selected internal forces N, My, and/or Mz. The resulting classification is then displayed in tables as "hinged", "semi-rigid", or "rigid".
Go to Explanatory VideoIn the "Steel Joints" add-on, you can consider preloaded bolts in all components during the calculation. You can easily activate the preloading using the check box in the bolt parameters, and it has an impact on the stress-strain analysis as well as the stiffness analysis.
Preloaded bolts are special bolts used in steel structures to generate a high clamping force between the connected structural components. This clamping force causes friction between the structural components, which allows for the transfer of forces.
Functionality
Preloaded bolts are tightened with a certain torque, causing them to stretch and generate a tensile force. This tensile force is transferred to the connected components and leads to a high clamping force. The clamping force prevents the connection from loosening and ensures safe force transmission.
Advantages
- High load-bearing capacity: Preloaded bolts can transfer large forces.
- Low deformation: They minimize the deformation of the connection.
- Fatigue strength: They are resistant to fatigue.
- Easy assembly: They are relatively easy to assemble and disassemble.
Analysis and Design
The calculation of preloaded bolts is performed in RFEM using the FE analysis model generated by the "Steel Joints" add-on. It takes into account the clamping force, friction between structural components, shear strength of bolts, and load-bearing capacity of the structural components. The design is carried out according to DIN EN 1993‑1‑8 (Eurocode 3) or the US standard ANSI/AISC 360‑16. You can save the created analysis model, including the results, and use it as an independent RFEM model.
In the Member Editor component, you can also select the entire member as the modifying object instead of the individual member plates. This way, you can apply both operations "Notch" and "Chamfer" to several member plates.