Stiffness of Welded T-joints Between SHS Profiles and Through Plates

The exploitation of tubular sections as columns in Moment Resisting Frames (MRFs) provides advantageous solutions to the global structural behaviour. However, the employment of hollow profiled columns is restricted due to the complexity concerning the manufacturing process of beam-to-column connections. Nevertheless, the recent introduction of 3D Laser Cutting Technology in Civil Engineering has created the opportunity to produce welded joints with passing-through beams. This is achieved by accurately cutting tubular profiles to match the cross-section shape of the double-tee member. This approach offers an enhanced alternative to joints where I-beams are welded to the external surface of the hollow profile, as it can provide greater flexural strength and stiffness. Recognising the significance of this topic, studies focusing on connections between Circular Hollow Section (CHS) columns and passing-through IPE beams have recently begun at the University of Salerno. These investigations have led to the implementation of a component method approach to characterise the flexural behaviour of the joint. The same methodology can be intended to connections between Square Hollow Section (SHS) columns and passing-through double-tee beams. Within this context, this research focuses on characterising the stiffness of welded T-joints between SHS tubes and passing-through plates. The mechanical response exhibited by this component aims to emulate the behaviour of the attachment between the tube and the beam flange of joints between SHS columns and passing double-tee profiles. The nodal component in question has been identified and studied through numerical simulations and theoretical approaches, leading to the development of an analytical design formulation.