When do we consider the joint flexibility option in fatigue analysis. I am doing deterministic fatigue analysis. Need to know when joint flexibility needs to be considered. What is the basic difference when the joint flexibility kept on and off.
Thanks
Joint flexibility can be considered at any time. It's main effect is to "soften" the structure by introducing springs between the member and the node which represents the flexibility of the connection. This in effect will reduce the nominal stresses in the brace and chord elements and increase the fatigue life. You can conservatively ignore joint flexibility and only assume rigid connections. Joint flexibility is really just a way to increase the fatigue life of the structure.
Answer Verified By: Tushar Kumar