Execution and reliability of slip resistant connections for steel structures using CS and SS (SIROCO)

Abstract

SIROCO investigated the slip-resistant behaviour of carbon and stainless steel preloaded connections as well as the preloading behaviour of stainless steel bolting assemblies in principle. The slip factor test procedure according to Annex G of EN 1090-2 was investigated regarding the influence of the test speed, preload level, tightening method, criteria for the slip load and load level for extended creep tests, different bolting assemblies and surface conditions (grit blasted, hot-dip galvanized, alkali/ethyl zinc silicate coating, thermally sprayed with aluminium/zinc and combinations). Improvements regarding the slip factor test procedure have been formulated which have already partly been implemented in the revision of EN 1090-2. Enhanced slip factors allow more economic slip-resistant connections. The use of stainless steel bolting assemblies in preloaded bolted slip-resistant connections joining stainless steel plates was studied through investigations into the creep/relaxation behaviour with regard to potential preload losses, the tightening and slip resistance behaviour for austenitic, duplex, lean duplex and super duplex stainless steels. Preload losses due to the viscoplastic deformation behaviour in preloaded stainless steel bolting assemblies lie in the same range as those for carbon steel. Stainless steel bolting assemblies are in principle preloadable and galling can be avoided using suitable lubricants and tightening methods. Slip factors for stainless steel slip-resistant connections show high values for grit blasted surfaces whereas even 1D and shot blasted surfaces demonstrated slip factors for practical use. Recommendations for design and execution of slip-resistant connections and amendments to EN 1993 1-4, EN 1993-1-8 and EN 1090-2 are formulated.