The traditional approach of the design of connections in steel relies on the Component Method. This method is reliable and thoroughly tested and still is widely used in engineering practice nowadays. The latest advancement in the design of the connections is the development of software solutions utilizing the CBFEM (Component-based Finite Element Model) method. In the CBFEM method, interconnecting elements of the connections are modeled using shell finite elements in combination with special finite elements acting as components in connections (bolts, welds). The material model utilized is elastic-plastic.
The great advantages of this kind of software solution are time efficiency and the possibility of a detailed analysis of a connection of any geometry and loading which was not possible with the Component Method.
We can provide the design of connections by using both approaches to EC3-1-8 and relevant National Annexes. The design can be done according to your input data about geometry of connection or we can provide alternative solutions.