Stress Intensity Factors for Doubler-Plate Reinforced Connections

Abstract

This paper presents results of a parametric study on stress intensity factors (SIF) of doubler-plate reinforced connections subjected to out-of-plane loading. This type of connection, with a doubler plate fillet welded to a base plate to provide reinforcement, is commonly used in ships and offshore structures. The SIF at the weld root and toe areas are evaluated using the J-integral method and good correlation with reference results are obtained. It is found that the relative base plate length-to-thickness ratio has significant influence on the SIF at the weld root or weld toe.