Numerical evaluation of tubular perfobond shear connectors

Abstract

Composite structures have been applied more frequently because they are an economical structural solution with excellent structural performance. The interaction is guaranteed with the use of elements that transfer the forces between these two materials. The most common mechanical connections between steel and concrete are made through shear connectors. Some of the connectors types used nowadays are stud bolt, U-profiles, Crestbond, Perfobond and T-Perfobond. Eurocode 4 prescribes that a connector has to possess a minimal ductility, one of the main requirements to shear connectors. The current Perfobond presents excellent resistant capacity, but low deformation capacity, contradicting what is prescribed by the code. This paper aims to study a Tubular Perforbond connector by analyzing the parameters that can influence its resistance and deformation capacity, applying FEM through Abaqus software, to simulate the composite structural, mechanical behaviour. When comparing the Tubular Perfobond connector with the Perfobond connector, it was possible to observe that the tubular connectors presented a substantial deformation capacity after peak load, while attending the connector ductility requirements. The use of Tubular connectors also decreased the concrete crushing propagation.