Behaviour of Blind-Bolted Open Sections to Hollow Sections Moment Connections under Seismic Loading

Abstract

There are many advantages reported as a result of the mixture of unfilled tubular section column to an open section connection. Architects find it useful in many occasions to use structural hollow sections in multi-story constructions, because of their high strength to weight ratio. Bolting to the face of the structural unfilled square sections is considered a very difficult area of application. These connections are easy, with fast installation, fine shape, and simple constitution without the need for field welding. Tightening a standard bolt and nut is difficult especially when the walls of hollow sections are relatively thin and welding is not efficient. Recent developments in bolting technology have developed a system that overcomes the complexity involved in the connection between open and hollow sections; Blind-bolting connections. Currently, the main usage of the blind-bolting is shear connections, whereas rigid behaviour may be achieved by fully welded connections. The most famous available blind bolts include Boxbolt, Flowdrill, Huck high strength blind-bolt, Ajax blind bolt, and Lindapter Hollo-bolt. KEYWORDS Moment-resisting connections, Blind bolts, Hollow sections, Open section connections, Blind connections, Metal Forming. RESEARCH OBJECTIVES AND GOALS The thesis aims to study the behaviour of the open section bolted connection to tubular member under seismic loading using end plate, to conclude the following: • Forces in bolts and their distribution. • Failure modes of the bolts and the end plate. • Interaction between the bolts and the end plate.