Analysis on shear behavior of high-strength bolts connection

Because of high cost of tests and numerical calculation using solid element of high-strength bolts connection in steel frameworks, it is important to find an accurate and simplified approach to describe the shear behavior of high-strength bolts connection. The paper aims to find a spring element to simulate the shear behavior instead of solid element in structure. Firstly, solid element model of high-strength bolt connection is established, which is proved correct and applicable comparing with existing typical shear tests. Then, base on the reliability of finite element model, the shear behavior of bolts connection is further discussed through a large number of parameter analyses. The three feature points and four stages of the simplified shear model are calibrated according to tests and calculation results. A simplified shear behavior model and hysteretic criterion of high-strength bolts connection are proposed. According to cases study, feasibility of the proposed model is validated. The proposed model gives a simple process to provide quite accurate results, which provides a great tool for engineering applications.