Finite Element Modelling and Parametric Study of Three-Dimensional Semi-Rigid Composite Joints

The behaviour of composite semi-rigid joints is being widely investigated. However, the investigation in composite joints has not been as prolific as in steel joints, and there still many issues to be investigated. One of these is the behaviour of three-dimensional semi-rigid composite joints, that is, columns with beams attached to both the strong and the weak axis. In order to pursue this end, a parametric study of the behaviour of three-dimensional semi-rigid composite joints has been carried out by means of an extensive finite element analysis using the software Abaqus. The finite element models have previously been validated by means of experimental results obtained from two tests. This paper describes all the parameters introduced in the model, which have leaded us to obtain accurate results. The conclusions obtained from a parametric study are also presented.