Finite element simulation of the cyclic behaviour of end-plate joints

This paper deals with the finite element modelling and analysis of end-plate joints in steel frames, under monotonic and cyclic loading conditions. In the first part of the paper the main characteristics of possible computational models are summarised and discussed, including remarks on finitisation possibilities, the applicable material models, non-linear solution algorithms, necessary verification procedure. The second part of the paper presents a set of numerical examples, demonstrating the process of systematic model verification on a shell finite element model for the cyclic analysis of bolted end-plate joints.