Analysis on behaviors of web connections between I-section beams and h-shaped columns

Finite element analyses of web connections between H-shaped columns and I-section beams were performed using the ANSYS program. Based on finite element analyses, theoretical analyzing models are developed respectively for shear deformation and flexural deformation of beam-flange plate. The equivalent shear stiffness equation of beam-flange plate is derived. The flexural stiffness equation of beam-flange plate is established under the assumption of beam with tapered-flange. A simplified model is developed to describe the monotonic and cyclic loading behavior of beam-to-columns web connection in steel moment-resisting frames. Reasonable agreement between model predictions and finite element analysis results is achieved. With this simplified model the behavior of the web connection subjected to monotonic and cyclic loading can be easily obtained.