Finite element investigation on the behavior of bolted flanged steel pipe joint subject to bending

Abstract: In this paper a Finite Element (FE) procedure is described for simulating the behavior of bolted flanged steel pipe joint subject to bending. The FE model of the pipe joint has been subjected to yield moment of steel pipe and the maximum bolt tension has been determined under that moment. FE models presented in this paper incorporate nonlinear material properties and simulation of contact between flanges as well as between bolt-head and flange. An extensive numerical study has been carried out to find out the effect of various parameters on bolt tension. The study reveals that flange thickness and diameter of bolt have predominant effect on bolt tension forces. The study presented here provides us with an opportunity to better understand the behavior of flanged pipe joint subjected to bending.