Parametric analysis on diagonal bracing joints connected with self-tapping screw

In this paper, a three-dimensional finite element model (FEM) was established to study the performance of sliding resistance on the diagonal bracing joints of prefabricated steel frame (PSF) connected with self-tapping screw. In addition, the load-displacement curves of the joints were well verified by the test results, and a parametric study was conducted using the validated models to investigate the effect of steel grade, thickness of the tapped plate, the margin of bolt hole, the end and the central distance of bolt hole. The results showed that with the increase of steel grade, thickness of the tapped plate and the distance of the bolt holes, the anti-slide stiffness and the ultimate bearing capacity of the joint were significantly improved. It was recommended that steel grade should be Q345, Q390 or above. It was advisable to take the thickness of the tapped plate at 0.7d0 ~ 1.0d0, take the margin of bolt hole at 1.2d0 ~1.6d0, the central and the end distance of bolt hole should be greater than 2.0d0 and 1.2d0, respectively. The results could provide reference for engineering design.