Experiments and FE-model for a connection between steel frames and precast concrete infill panels (Stuttgart)

The paper presents experimental and FE results of investigations into the structural behaviour of a connection between steel frames and precast concrete infill panels, forming a recently developed lateral load resisting system. The discrete connections, being structural bolts on the column and beam in every corner of the steel frame and confining the precast concrete infill panel within the steel frame, have a large influence on the global structural behaviour. They are loaded in compressive force and designed for ‘bolt failure’ by shearing of the bolt through the nut. Mechanisms that influence the connection behaviour include indentation of steel plates under compression produced by bolts, bolt deformation and flange bending. These mechanisms act in series. Experimental tests were performed on components of the steel-concrete connection to establish the stiffness and failure load of the several mechanisms. A FE model was developed for the component ‘flange bending’ of the connection, taking non-linear material properties and geometrical non-linearity into account. A comparison between the experiments and FE model shows that the FE model enables to simulate the connection component behaviour. The validated FE model was used to carry out a parametrical study. The experimental and FE results of this research will be used to develop FE models for full-size laterally loaded steel frames with discretely connected precast concrete infill panels with window openings.