Numerical and theoretical evaluation of the influence of edge-to-hole distance on possible failure modes of sleeve connections in thin-walled square hollow sections
Tubular members in truss structures allow for spanning large distances with reduced self-weight. To facilitate manufacturing, transportation, and assembly, these members are subdivided and therefore require connections to join the segments. One example is the sleeve connection, which uses through bolts and eliminates the need for welded or flanged joints, making assembly quicker and more practical. The present study aimed to conduct a theoretical and numerical analysis of the influence of the edge-to-hole distance in sleeve connections with aligned bolts, applied to thin-walled square hollow sections. For this purpose, a numerical analysis was carried out using the finite element method through ANSYS software, with variations in edge-to-hole distance of 2, 2.5, 2.7, 3, and 3.5 times the bolt diameter, as well as variations in the number of bolts between 2 and 3. From this study, the possible failure modes of the connection were identified, with the dominant failure mode being the bearing failure of the bolt holes, also observed in the theoretical evaluation, occurring in the outer tubes. Furthermore, variations in the edge-to-hole distance and the number of bolts did not change this failure mode.
