PSI - Issue 64

Fernando Nunes et al. / Procedia Structural Integrity 64 (2024) 1081–1088 Author name / Structural Integrity Procedia 00 (2019) 000 – 000

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modifications, thus facilitating assembly and disassembly processes. This methodology signifies a notable advancement in the maintenance of historical steel structures, allowing for the effective integration of contemporary engineering practices with heritage conservation principles (Cabaleiro et al., 2017, 2023). Implementing inspection structures utilizing clamp joints reflects a strategic approach adaptable for both internal and external applications. This versatility ensures efficient access for maintenance and inspection activities while preserving these constructions' structural integrity and historical value. The methodology is grounded in existing research and ongoing innovation, aimed at addressing the dual challenges of corrosion and access difficulties, thus demonstrating such solutions' technical viability and effectiveness (Cabaleiro et al., 2023). Accordingly, this research aims to elucidate the application of clamp joint systems in preserving and maintaining historical steel structures. Through a comprehensive analysis involving Finite Element Method (FEM) simulations and experimental validations, this study seeks to confirm the efficacy of clamp joint systems in enhancing the sustainability and preservation of historical steel constructions, contributing to the evolution of structural engineering practices within the context of heritage conservation. 2. Proposal for Anchoring and Inspection Structure with Clamped Joints: Internal and External Installation This paper introduces a dual approach for inspecting steel structures using clamped joints, enhancing access while preserving integrity. It offers adaptive external and internal solutions for maintenance: the former ensures easy upper access, and the latter protects in harsh conditions. (Cabaleiro et al., 2023) underpin this with a study on a non-invasive, removable walkway system for historic structures, proving its efficacy for health inspections. 3. Clamped Joints: Operational Mechanism The operational mechanism of clamped joints represents a pivotal innovation in assembling metallic structures, thereby obviating the need for traditional welding or drilling. This approach relies on the application of a specific preload ( ) to the clamp bolt, following a predetermined formula as per Eurocode 3 (Holst et al., 2011b, 2011a): = 0,7∙ ∙ 1,1 (1) In this context, refers to the ultimate tensile strength of the steel bolt, whereas indicates the net cross sectional area of the bolt. Such precision in the application of preload is essential for effectively securing metallic profiles without compromising structural integrity. Incorporating details from Fig. 2, the preload results in a clamping force ( ) on the clamp's surface, which interacts with the flange of the metallic profile. This interaction is governed by the equation: = + ∙ (2) This formula efficiently captures the transformation of applied preload into a significant force, ensuring a secure connection between the clamp and the metallic profile. Specifically, Fig. 1 illustrates the leverage mechanism, highlighting how the force ( ) is applied to the clamp resting on the profile's flange. This distribution is critical for the uniform force application across the clamp's width ( k ) and depth ( w ), which is crucial for the structural fidelity and the reliability of the connection.

Fig. 1. (a) How the clamp operates using the lever mechanism as depicted in the side view; (b) Detail of the clamp support surface on the bridge profile flange as seen in a top view.