This study performed finite element analysis (FEA) to evaluate the structural performance of rectangular hollow section (RHS) column-to-H beam connections with external diaphragms. The current design criteria for these connections are based on geometr...
This study performed finite element analysis (FEA) to evaluate the structural performance of rectangular hollow section (RHS) column-to-H beam connections with external diaphragms. The current design criteria for these connections are based on geometric constraints and design formulas proposed by the Architectural Institute of Japan (AIJ) through experimental studies. In the analysis, the diaphragm's shape and thickness were kept constant, and the width-to-thickness ratio of the RHS column was set as the main variable. The results showed that a lower width-to-thickness ratio led to earlier local yielding in the column and a more rapid reduction in strength. Additionally, the FEA results were compared with theoretical values to assess the discrepancy between them.