Engineering Commons^™

The Effects Of Bolt Pretension, In-Plane Eccentricity, And Friction On The Ductility Of Block Shear Connections, Kevin M. Zmetra

Master's Theses

Block shear is a complex failure mechanism in bolted and welded steel components such as gusset plates, webs of coped beams, angles and tees. It presumes a combination of tension rupture and shear yield. Multiple variables affect the block shear capacity and ductility of a connection. This study investigates the effects of bolt pretension, connection eccentricity and friction force transfer through a series of destructive experiments followed by refined finite element simulation. Clamping forces create a complex triaxial stress field compounded by the stress concentration at the bolt holes. In-plane load eccentricity with respect to the centerline of the connection …