Behaviour of axially loaded tubular V-joints

Abstract

The results of an experimental test program comprising seven tubular V-joints and five tubular T-joints consisting of circular hollow sections and subject to branch axial loading are reported. The tested specimens had branch-to-chord diameter ratios varying from 0·22 to 0·65, and chord radius-to-thickness ratios of 13 to 23. The angle between branches of the V-joints was 60, 90 or 120 degrees. The behaviour of the joints is examined through a comparison of ultimate strengths, stiffness characteristics and hotspot stresses of comparable T and V specimens. Addition of a loaded out-of-plane branch member to a T-joint increases the strength of the T-joint when the angle between the branches is low, and decreases it when the angle is large.