This study investigates the ultimate strength and curling influence in single shear bolted connection with 7075-T6 aluminum alloys using numerical approach. The applicability of finite element analysis was validated through the comparison between existing test results and numerical predictions. Curling was observed in some specimens with a relatively long end distance and reduced the ultimate strength of bolted connection. Strength reduction ratio by curling was estimated quantitatively and it is known that curling caused the strength reduction by maximum 21%.

This study investigates the ultimate strength and curling influence in single shear bolted connection with aluminum alloys(6061-T6) using finite element analysis. The applicability of numerical modeling was validated through the comparison of existing test results. Main variables are end distance and edge distance. Strength reduction ratio by curling was estimated quantatively and it is known that the curling reduced the ultimate strength by maximum 26%.

Aluminum angles are widely used as tension members with bolted connection in buildings. In current design specification for net tensile capacity, reduction factor (U) is usually used to account for the effects of shear lag and bending induced from load eccentricity. In this paper, an investigation on reduction factor (U) of bolted angle connections was conducted and focused on net section efficiency according to the change of plate thickness and bolt arrangement. Exception to some specimens with short end distance and 1x1 bolt arrangement, all most specimens failed by net tensile fracture accompanied by curling at outstanding leg. The value of curling deformation has increased with increase of end distance (e) and the curling influenced the fracture mode of bolted angle connection. Also, net section efficiency has tended to increase according to the increase of bolt number and plate thickness.

Recently, study on the application of sustainable materials to building and civil structure fields has been increased. Especially, the usage of aluminum alloys can improve durability of structures due to it’s high corrosion resistance. In this study, to investigate the ultimate behaviors such as ultimate strength and fracture mode of single shear bolted connections with aluminum alloys (7075-T6), experiments were conducted. Main variables are bolt arrangement and end distance parallel to the direction of load. As a result, the specimens failed by shear out fracture and block shear fracture and also the specimens with long end distance were accompanied by curling (out of plane deformation). The curling led to reduction of ultimate strength or rigidity. Futhermore, pattern of strain distribution was investigated according to curling occurrence.