Finite Element Modelling of Semi-Rigid Beam to Column Connection With Partly Hidden Corbel

Abstract

Utilizing many specimens in full-scaled experimental testing to study the behavior of precast concrete connections can be expensive. An alternative is to cast and carry out a minimal number of experimental tests and then model the connection/structure in a finite element software. The FE model can be validated using the few experimental tests carried out, and FEA can be used to analyze and study the behavior of the structure. Once validated, further parametric study can be carried out on the FE model. However, the modelling of precast concrete column-to-beam connection has not been explored widely by researchers. One of the main challenges is that modelling precast concrete connection involves complex surface to surface interaction and there is a lack of efficient ways on the modelling of the precast and in-situ concrete surface to surface interaction in finite element software. Hence, the main objective of this research is to model a hidden corbel precast beam-to-column connection in a finite element software, ABAQUS, which is then validated using previously published proposed precast connection and experimental works. Initially, the FE model was developed based on the technical drawings of the components and assembly of the precast connection. The FE model is validated when it can simulate similar structural behavior as the experimental tests. The behavior that were used for comparison with the experimental work is load-displacement and the failure cracks patterns' behavior. In general, the FE model results show similar behavior with the experimental results in regards to the load-displacement curve and failure cracks patterns.