Verification of the calculation results of the SAFEM bolted connection using the IDEA StatiCa connection software

Abstract

Purpose. The objective is to assess the accuracy and convergence of different approaches to calculating bolted connections, particularly the finite element method (FEM), the semi-analytical finite element method (SAFEM), analytical calculations, and the IDEA StatiCa. Additionally, the study examines the stress state of bolts while considering pretension. The methods. The study is based on an analysis of the results obtained from different modeling approaches for bolt pretension. The calculations were conducted using FEM, SAFEM, the IDEA StatiCa software package, which follows EN standards, as well as analytical calculations in accordance with the construction standards of DBN and EN. Findings. A minor difference in stress distribution was found between the FEM, SAFEM, and IDEA StatiCa methods. However, discrepancies were identified in the stress state of the bolted connection when considering pretension. The convergence of results between IDEA StatiCa calculations under EN standards and bolt pretension modeling via uniform heating was confirmed. The feasibility of using SAFEM for the calculation of steel joints with bolted connections was substantiated in comparison with DBN, EN, FEM, and the component method of FEM. The originality. Within the framework of a comparative analysis of bolted connection calculations using different approaches to modeling bolt pretension, it was established that the difference in stress distribution between the FEM and SAFEM approaches, as well as between IDEA StatiCa and other methods, is insignificant. The obtained patterns confirm the validity of using SAFEM to assess the stress state of bolted connections. The convergence of results obtained in IDEA StatiCa under EN standards with bolt pretension modeling via uniform heating was established. Practical implementation. The obtained results confirm the feasibility of using SAFEM for analyzing bolted connections in steel structures, allowing for improved design accuracy and service life assessment. The observed convergence of results obtained in IDEA StatiCa with numerical modeling methods contributes to the improvement of calculation methodologies that consider bolt pretension.