Finite-element analysis of the eaves joint of cold-formed steel portal frames having single channel-sections

A finite element model is described for the eaves joint of a cold-formed steel portal frame that comprises a single channel section for the column and rafters eaves connections. The members are connected to the brackets through both screws and bolts. Such a joint detail is commonly used in practice in New Zealand and Australia, where the function of the screws is to prevent slip of the joint during frame erection since the bolt holes are detailed for nominal clearance. The results of the finite element model are compared against two experimental test results. In both, the critical mode of failure is a combination of torsion of the eaves joint and shear failure of screws. It is found that at ultimate load, the bolts have not engaged i.e. they have slipped. It is shown that the stiffness of the joints can be accurately predicted from the equations of bolt and screw stiffness of Zaharia and Dubina (2000). It is also shown that the finite element model can be used to determine both an upper and lower bound to the failure load.