Assessment of the Load Bearing Models for the Ductile Behavior of Steel-to-Timber Connections

Abstract

Steel-timber composite (STC) structures have gained increasing popularity in recent years due to their eco-friendly character while structurally performant. To mobilize the synergy between the two materials, connections play a key role. Among the various connection methods, dowel-type connections are the most commonly used for STC applications. Analytical models from current standards, such as the European Yield Model, are often employed to predict the strength of these connections. However, the performance of these models, particularly when applied to timber products like Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), which consists of layers oriented in different directions, remains uncertain and requires further validation. Accurately predicting the strength of these connections plays a critical role in ensuring the ductile response of steel-timber connections under lateral loads. In this study, a numerical model of a steel-to-CLT dowel-type connection is developed and validated against experimental data from the literature. Furthermore, analytical models proposed in the literature are critically evaluated for their ability to predict the strength of steel-timber connections under varying configurations, including differences in timber layering and steel component properties. The limitations of these models are discussed, focusing on their inability to fully capture the load transfer mechanism in dowel-type connections covering the diversity of timber products that are often combined with steel beams, such as CLT panels. This research provides valuable insights into the behavior of steel-timber connections and highlights the importance of accurate strength prediction in contributing to their ductile response.