Lap joints stiffness according to Eurocode EC3 and experimental investigations results

Axial forces F in the lap joints connections are responsible for mutual displacements δ of connected walls (F=Kδ×δ), and bending moments M—their mutual rotations about angle φ (M=Sj×φ). Basing on formulae provided in EC3 concerning the coefficients of stiffness of the basic joint components, analogical formulae have been derived for sliding lap joints (Kδ) and rotary lap joints (Sj). Results achieved from stiffness formulae for various types of lap joints are compared with the experimental results of known models presented in literature. Our experimental results of single-cut joints made of blind-bolts of the type BOM R16 for cold-formed sections are also presented. Elements with those connections are simultaneously tested for bending and shear. Experimental investigations ended with the paths of static equilibrium (PSE) illustrated by M–φ diagrams and compared with three-segmental broken curves achieved from formulae proposal mentioned above. It can be stated the lap joints stiffness described by the three-segmental broken curves are accurate for the real behavior of discussed connections. Results of each experimental investigations are characterized with higher and lower dispersion. The broken curves situated under the paths of static equilibrium (PSE) are safe and reflect in satisfying way the behavior of bar structures with investigated joints.