Dipl.-Ing. Ina Kuntsche

The design of complex structural steel connections using finite element analysis is common practice today. However, the geometry and material modeling of welds has not yet been regulated by standards. Even in the draft of EN 1993-1-14, which is intended to define the most important requirements for finite element analysis in steel construction, the question of weld modelling remains largely open.

The aim of this research project is to determine the specific load-bearing behavior of welded structures by means of experimental and numerical investigations. The results will be used to derive rules for finite element modeling of the geometry and material behavior in the weld area.

In addition, an economic verification concept with realistic stress and strain limit values will be developed for the evaluation of the numerical results.