Structural Performance of Different Baseplate Configurations in Storage Rack Systems

The successful transfer of complex loads from a storage rack system to the concrete slab is closely related to the performance of the connection between the baseplate and the upright. The relationship between moment and rotation strongly influences the performance of this connection. Various factors, including the arrangement and quantity of anchor rods and the direction of loading, impact the moment-rotation behavior in the baseplate connection. However, predicting the moment-rotation behavior of the baseplate-upright connection, considering the different loading directions and anchor configurations commonly found in commercially available storage racks, has not received sufficient attention. Thus, this study aims to investigate the behavior of five distinct baseplate models that employ two or three anchor bolts, subject to two different loading directions. The investigation is carried out through rigorous numerical simulations and meticulous experimental testing. By focusing on the moment-rotation curves resulting from the applied loads, the study aims to gain valuable insights into the performance of the baseplate-upright connections. Additionally, the validated finite element model is employed to examine the distribution of principal stress, providing crucial information about the connection's structural integrity and potential failure points. Certain configurations were observed to outperform others in terms of energy dissipation and favorable moment-rotation characteristics. The configuration with three bolts located at the back of the upright (3B-B) outperforms with higher energy dissipation capacities and more favorable moment-rotation characteristics, while the configuration with two bolts vertically located at the back of upright (2B-V) is inferred to have inferior performance.

Journal

ARABIAN JOURNAL FOR SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING

Year

2025

Volume

50

Issue

16

Pages

13209-13223

ISSN

2193-567X

eISSN

2191-4281

DOI

10.1007/s13369-024-09711-1

WoS UID

WOS:001341145600001