Parametric Study on Blind Bolted Rectangular CFST to Steel Beam Connection Including Combined Stiffeners

This article presents a parametric analysis on blind bolted connections between rectangular concrete-filled steel tube (CFST) columns and steel beams including combined stiffeners. Numerical studies involved using a three-dimensional (3D) non-linear finite element model (FEM) of the connections subjected to cyclic loading. The proposed FEM’s accuracy is validated against experimental data from previously tested novel connections. Key parameters such as the yield strength of the end-plate and beam flange as well as the compressive strength of the concrete core were investigated. Findings emphasized the influence of these parameters on the cyclic behavior and energy dissipation, in achieving satisfactory ductility. The study also examined seismic properties of the joint with combined stiffeners, evaluating stiffness and strength degradation, showing promising seismic performance of the proposed connection.