Finite element modeling and analysis of a hybrid steel–PSC beam connection

A reliable nonlinear finite element model of hybrid steel–PSC beam connection has been developed to investigate the behaviour of the connection. The material nonlinearities of concrete, steel beam, stud, rebar, and tendon were included in the finite element model. The analysis results using the Bézier curve tension stiffening model for concrete compared well with the experimental results. The proposed finite element model offers a reliable and cost-effective alternative to laboratory testing. An extensive parametric study with the changes in a number of transverse rebars and tendon prestress was conducted. The parametric study results showed that the transverse rebar affected the failure mode and that the tendon prestress significantly influenced the load carrying capacity and behaviour of the connection.