Slip-resistant connections subjected to freeze-thaw cycles

There are many examples of steel structures subjected to severe environmental conditions with bolted connections directly exposed to climatic agents such as steel bridges, mining transfer towers, wind towers etc. In this experimental research, non-slip joints with M16 and M20 bolts have been studied. The specimens were subjected to fourteen 12 h freeze-thaw cycles, with periodic immersion in water and temperature oscillation. Subsequently, the connections were subjected to a slip test under monotonic load. The results were compared with other equal joints not subjected to freeze-thaw cycles and kept at room temperature for the same time. Some interesting conclusions are extracted from this piece of research. It was observed that freeze-thaw cycles negatively affect the slip resistance of non-slip joints with GB+ZE surfaces, even with a slight increase in clamping force. Samples with SR and GB surfaces increase in their slip resistance was observed.