Analysis of beam-to-upright end connections steel storage systems.

Abstract

This study presents an experimental and numerical research into the behavior of beam-to-upright end connections, which are part of steel storage systems. A total of 21 cantilever tests comprising three upright and four beam cross sections, were conducted, and a finite element numerical model was developed. The model was developed to compare its results with experimental results and to extrapolate these results in a parametric analysis. The aim of the study is to evaluate the behavior, semi-rigidity, and influence of the geometric parameters in the stiffness of beam–upright lipped connections of pallet-type industrial storage systems. The results of the numerical model showed good correlation with the experimental results, in terms of moment–rotation behavior and the initial stiffness values, with a maximum differenc e of 10%. In the parametric analysis, a pattern was observed in the variation of stiffness when the dimensions—mainly the height of beams—of the prototypes were increased.