Analysis of the Mechanical Behaviour of an Innovative Removable Clamps-Based Connection System for Steel Square and Rectangular Profiles

Abstract

This work studies a new 90º connection system based on clamps for a square or rectangular steel profile, which can be used on existing structures without any prior or invasive operations. The main field where this connection system could be used would be in industrial plants, since it allows the reuse of industrial structures as many times as necessary, depending on each layout change, thus obtaining significant economic savings. This work aims to analyse the behaviour of this new type of connection using a 3D FEM-based numerical analysis procedure, previously validated against experimental tests. In this research, it has been possible to identify four behavioural modes, the first of which, linear behaviour, is the most suitable for the operational work of this type of connection. The distance between the bolts, one of the most important variables affecting the mechanical response, is parameterised and analysed in a numerical model. According to the results, the strength of the joint improves as the distance between the bolts increases, but this also means larger clamps and the need for more space.