The effects of partial shear connection in composite flush end plate joints. Part II: Analytical study and design appraisal

The behaviour of composite beams under hogging bending has been successfully simulated using an analytical model derived previously. This paper describes the extension of the work to study the behaviour of composite joints incorporating semi-rigid flush end plate connections. With proper inclusion of the joint characteristics, the model was found to be equally capable of modelling the structural behaviour including the effects of partial shear connection. Experimental results of a novel series of composite joint tests detailed in the accompanying companion paper were compared, in addition to those published in the literature. The analysis results provided close agreement with the various test behaviour. Using the model that has been properly calibrated against experimental results, a systematic parametric study was also undertaken. The outcomes are described herein. In addition, existing design models to predict the strength, stiffness, and ductility of composite joints were also reviewed and compared against the test results. The results emanating from this paper contribute as a total package apart from experimental undertakings to further understand the complex behaviour of the composite joints. This is very beneficial in a design perspective.