A

Project Phase I
Report on
“THE DESIGN OF COLUMN BASE
PLATE FOR SHEAR WITH SHEAR LUG ”
In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirement for the Master Degree in Civil
Engineering
Submitted To
SAVITRIBAI PHULE UNIVERSITY OF PUNE, PUNE

SUBMITTED BY
Submitted by
Gunjal Aniket Babaji

GUIDED BY
Prof. Dr.P.K.Kolase

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

LOKNETE DR. BALASAHEB VIKHE PATIL
(PADMABHUSHAN AWARDEE)
PRAVARA RURAL ENGINEERING COLLAGE, LONI- 413736
TAL. RAHATA DIST. AHMEDNAGAR, (M.S.), INDIA
2023-24
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LOKNETE DR. BALASAHEBVIKHE PATIL (PADMABHUSHAN AWARDEE)

PRAVARA RURAL ENGINEERING COLLAGE, LONI- 413736
PRAVARA RURAL ENGINEERING COLLAGE, LONI
Department of Civil Engineering

CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that the following students have satisfactorily
carried out the M.E. Project work entitled “ THE DESIGN OF
COLUMN BASE PLATE FOR SHEAR WITH SHEAR LUG ”. This
work is being submitted for the award of degree of Master of
Structural Engineering. It is submitted in the partial fulfillment
of the prescribed syllabus of Savitribai Phule Pune University,
Pune for the academic year 2023 – 2024 (Sem-I).

Examination Seat No. Name of the Student

Gunjal Aniket Babaji

Dr. P. K. Kolase Dr. P. K. Kolase

Guide Project Coordinator
Dept. of Civil Engg Dept. of Civil Engg

Dr. P. K. Kolase Dr S. M. Gulhane

Head Examiner Principal
Dept. of Civil Engg PREC, Loni

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PRAVARA RURAL ENGINEERING COLLEGE

Declaration by the Student

Title of the Project: THE DESIGN OF COLUMN BASE PLATE FOR SHEAR WITH
SHEAR LUG

Following students have completed project phase one entitled “ THE DESIGN OF
COLUMN BASE PLATE FOR SHEAR WITH SHEAR LUG ’’ in all respect. We all hereby
take full responsibility of the result of the research work and hereby assure that the information
given is true to the best of my knowledge and belief. We all hereby assure that this work is free
from plagiarism and wherever any previous research work is referenced, it is so mentioned in the
text. We understand that any violation of the above will be cause for disciplinary / penal action
by Pravara Rural Engineering College, Savitribai Phule Pune University and from the sources
which have thus not been properly cited or from whom proper permission has not been taken
when needed.

Name of the Student: Signature of the Student:

Mr.Gunjal Aniket Babaji

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We wish to extend my gratitude to those who in one way or another made my research to be
success.

Firstly and for most, we would like to thank the almighty God for shining his light down on us
and for given us stable health and support from all the below mentioned people. We praise and
honor you. We owe our sincere appreciation to our guide, Dr.P.K. Kolase who was ever ready to
give us a helping hand whenever we needed it.

Finally, we wish to express our sincere gratitude to our classmates, our greatest friend and others
for their moral supports and assisted us through encouragement and advice.

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CONTENT

ABSTRACT

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Overview

1.2 Challenges in traditional designs

1.3 Problem statement

1.4 Objective

1.5 Expectations of the study

2 LITERATURE REVIEWS
2.1 Literature Survey
6
2.2 Field of research

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LIST OF FIGURE AND TABLE

Fig1.1 Column base detail (small lateral or uplift force) 8

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ABSTRACT

Structural engineering plays a pivotal role in ensuring the stability and safety of buildings and
industrial structures. The base plate, a critical component in supporting vertical loads and
transferring them to the foundation, requires meticulous design to meet stringent safety and
performance standards. This study focuses on the incorporation of shear lugs as an innovative
enhancement to conventional base plate designs, aiming to improve the overall structural
stability and load-bearing capacity.

The research involves a comprehensive investigation into the structural behavior of base plates
with shear lugs through a combination of analytical, numerical, and experimental methodologies.
Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is employed to model and simulate the complex interactions
between the base plate, shear lug, and surrounding structural elements under various loading
conditions. The study aims to optimize the dimensions and configurations of the shear lug to
maximize its effectiveness in resisting shear forces and enhancing the overall stability of the
structure.

The experimental component of the research involves the fabrication and testing of physical
prototypes to validate the numerical simulations and analytical predictions. This experimental
data is crucial for refining the design parameters and ensuring that the proposed base plate with
shear lug system meets or exceeds industry standards for safety and performance.

The anticipated outcomes of this research include a deeper understanding of the behavior of base
plates with shear lugs, providing valuable insights for structural engineers and designers. The
findings are expected to contribute to the development of guidelines and best practices for the

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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Overview

Anchor bolts and other devices have been used for many years to anchor steel frames to a
concrete foundation. The majority of these base connections are expected to receive nominal
loads (i.e., loads due to erection). Figure 1.1 shows a column base detail with erection bolts
which receive relatively small loads. These same anchorage devices are also used in critical
applications within a building (i.e., anchorage of braced frames).

Fig 1.1: column base detail (small lateral or uplift force)

These connections may receive considerably larger loads and are responsible for the
overall stability of the structure. a column base detail for a braced frame which may resist
relatively large shear and tension forces. The loads applied to these same braced frames have
increased due to larger wind and seismic design forces mandated by recent code revisions
implementation of this enhanced base plate design in various structural applications. Ultimately,
the incorporation of shear lugs into base plate designs has the potential to enhance the resilience
and load-bearing capacity of structures, thereby advancing the field of structural engineering.

1.2 Challenges in traditional designs:

In traditional base plate designs, challenges primarily arise in effectively resisting lateral
forces, particularly shear. The limitations of these designs become apparent when subjected to
lateral loads, potentially leading to issues such as tilting or sliding of the structure. These
challenges compromise the overall stability and structural integrity of buildings or industrial

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facilities. The introduction of shear lugs aims to address these issues by providing supplementary
resistance against shear forces, enhancing the overall performance of the base plate and ensuring
the stability of the entire structure.
Traditional base plate designs often face challenges in effectively resisting lateral forces,
particularly shear. These limitations can result in issues such as tilting or sliding of the structure,
compromising overall stability. The introduction of shear lugs addresses these challenges by
providing additional resistance against shear forces, improving the performance of the base plate
and enhancing the overall stability of structures.
1.3 Problem statement
The problem addressed in this study revolves around the limitations of traditional base
plate designs, particularly in their ability to resist lateral forces, especially shear. Traditional base
plates may struggle to provide sufficient stability under lateral loading conditions, leading to
issues such as tilting or sliding of the structure. This inherent challenge poses a risk to overall
structural integrity and safety.
Key questions addressed in the problem statement include:

1. How do traditional base plates perform under lateral loads, specifically in resisting shear
forces?

2. What are the potential consequences of inadequate shear resistance, such as tilting or
sliding?

3. How can shear lugs be effectively integrated into base plate designs to address these
challenges?

4. What are the optimal dimensions and configurations of shear lugs to maximize their
effectiveness in enhancing shear resistance?

1.4 Objective:

The primary objective of the study is to investigate and optimize the design of base plates
with shear lugs. The goal is to enhance the structural stability and load-bearing capacity of these
base plates, particularly in resisting shear forces. The study aims to achieve this by employing
advanced analytical tools like Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to model and simulate the
structural behavior of the system under various loading conditions. The focus is on identifying

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optimal dimensions and configurations for shear lugs that maximize their effectiveness in
resisting shear forces. Additionally, the study includes experimental validation to refine design
parameters, ensuring the proposed system meets or exceeds industry safety standards. The
ultimate objective is to contribute valuable insights to structural engineering practices and
advance the field by developing more resilient and stable base plate designs.

1.5 Expectations of the study

 The anticipated outcomes of this research include a deeper understanding of the behavior
of base plates with shear lugs, offering valuable insights for structural engineers.
 The findings are expected to contribute to the development of guidelines and best
practices for implementing this enhanced base plate design, ultimately advancing the
field of structural engineering.

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2.LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Literature Survey

Use of shear lugs for anchorage to concrete, Peter J. Carrat, et all (2009) resrech on shear
lug design for lateral loads, presenting laboratory test results on shear lug assemblies. Shear
transfer mechanisms, including bearing and anchorage, are explored, with attention to different
failure modes. Testing and analysis complexities lead to empirical design recommendations,
emphasizing factors influencing concrete bearing capacity and shear friction. Detailed
construction recommendations cover grouting, reinforcement, weld design, and anchor
embedment depth, ensuring shear lug performance aligns with design expectations.

Evaluation of steel column base plate connection in special moment-resisting frames and
optimized by abaqus, Dr. Luay Mohammed Al-Shather(2018) conducted a study on the
reliability analysis of a column-base connection in a steel moment-resisting frame. The focus
was on the design and seismic considerations of the connection, employing the AISC Design
Guide No. 1-2005 procedure. The study utilized finite element modeling in ABAQUS to analyze
the structural components and conducted reliability analysis for different hazard levels. The
results highlighted the dominant failure modes, and fragility curves were developed to
understand the relationship between failure probabilities and earthquake intensity. The study
suggests potential modifications to enhance the connection's reliability and emphasizes the
importance of incorporating a capacity design approach.
Column bases with anchor bolts Dr. M. R. Shiyekar et.all(2021) study focuses on the analysis
and design of column base plate connections with anchor bolts. It emphasizes considering the
combined effects of axial compression, uplift pressure, and shear, especially under high bending
moments. The study uses ANSYS Workbench software for modeling and analysis, incorporating
modifications based on specifications from the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC).
The objectives include determining critical design actions, formulating design guidelines, and
suggesting improvements to the Bureau of Indian Standards. The research highlights the role of
anchor bolts, the impact of loading conditions on base plate behavior, and the practical
application of the study in designing critical steel structures.

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Reliability of exposed column-base plate connection in special moment-resisting frames A.

Aviram(2008) investigates the reliability of exposed column-base plate connections in special
moment-resisting frames, focusing on seismic performance. The analysis considers failure modes
such as concrete crushing, yielding of the base plate, tensile yielding of anchor bolts, friction
failure, and shear failure. Fragility curves are developed for each failure mode, and a sensitivity
analysis identifies critical parameters influencing connection reliability. The study suggests
potential modifications to the AISC Design Guide No. 1-2005 to enhance the safety and
performance of these critical structural components. The results indicate relatively high failure
probabilities, emphasizing the need for adjustments in design practices.
Finite element analysis of bolted column baseconnection without and with stiffeners Ali
Karbakhsh Ravari et.all (2011)The researcher's study delves into the finite element analysis of
column base plates, focusing on the impact of various design configurations on the structural
behavior under axial force. Three primary models are considered: without stiffeners, with
stiffeners, and with stiffeners along with peripheral plates, representing different scenarios in
practical applications. The analysis is centered on the response of the column base plates to axial
force, with an emphasis on the calibration of numerical models based on experimental results.
Stiffeners, when introduced, are shown to modify the connection behavior, and the study
investigates how these modifications influence the overall rigidity of the structure. The research
incorporates laboratory tests, with moment-rotation curves providing valuable data for validating
the numerical models. Additionally, the study examines the influence of key parameters such as
plate thickness and anchor bolt diameter on connection rigidity. The findings suggest that certain
design provisions may be conservative for stiffened column base plates, emphasizing the
nuanced effects of different factors on the structural response. Overall, the study contributes to a
comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved in the design and behavior of column
base plates in structural engineering.
Patel K and Chen W [21]: In the paper “Nonlinear Analysis of Steel Moment Connection” a
nonlinear stress analysis was performed on a flange connection plate by isolating it with suitable
free body. The weld required to join the flange connection plates to the column was proposed
through the study of stress distribution in the flange connection plate. For finite element
modelling a general purpose Non-linear structural analysis program (NONSAP) was used for the
analysis.

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Thambiratnam D and Paramasivam P [20]: In the paper “Base plates under axial loads and
moments” experiments were conducted by applying axial loads and moments by eccentric
loading on the column to study the behaviour of base plates. Thickness and eccentricity of the
loads were the parameters of the study. At higher eccentricities the mode of failure observed was
due to yielding of base plate and at lower eccentricities the primary mode of failure was due to
cracking of plate. From the experiments it was observed that the eccentricity of base plate has
greater influence on the strain than the thickness of the base plate. The test results showed that
the base plate 8 at higher eccentricities failed due to yielding and that the behaviour of the base
plate under testing is somewhat different form the design methods.
Wong M and Loi F [19]: In the paper “Analysis of frames involving geometrical and material
nonlinearity” a simpler procedure about framed structure is presented for solving the fully
nonlinear problem. The basis of this procedure is a direct combination of two separately
developed formulation and these are for large deformation purely elastic analysis and for small
displacement elastic-perfectly plastic analysis. Path linearization scheme was proposed to link
the two parts. The main emphasis of this paper was to explain how the two procedures are
combined. A general computer program NONPLAST was also briefly described. A three-stage
process of a general finite element approach was proposed to perform the combined geometrical
and material nonlinear analysis. Following it is the second stage of path linearization which links
two types of analysis. Finally, an appropriate method for the incremental path dependent
computer analysis of elastic-perfectly plastic frames inclusive of large deformations was used.
Also, geometrical nonlinear analysis was combined through a path linearization technique to a
small displacement elasto-plastic analysis.
Kruger et al [18]: In the paper “Nonlinear analysis of structural steel frames” various ways of
including material, geometrical and connection nonlinearities into a stiffness matrix was
discussed. The stiffness matrix method was adjusted to incorporate all these nonlinearities into
software which was developed by the author. Finally, by the means of computer program an
example was illustrated.
Najjar S and Burgess I [17]: In the paper “A nonlinear analysis for three-dimensional steel
frames in fire conditions” a program ‘3DFIRE’ based on principles of frame analysis was
developed for modelling the behavior of skeletal frames under fire conditions. This particular
program is based on another program ‘INSTAF’ which is used for nonlinear spread of yield

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analysis of 9 rigid frameworks. The same was modified to a 3-D capability covering both
geometric and material nonlinearities, including effect of temperature variations on material
properties.
Ermopolous J and Stamatopoulos G [16]: In the paper “Mathematical modelling of column
base plate connections” a design procedure was proposed for the derivation of Moment-rotation
curves of column base connections which was based on classical design. Also, a new formula
was proposed which describes the relation between moment and rotation with adequate accuracy.

Stamatopoulos G and Ermopoulos J [15]: In the paper “Interaction curves for column base-
plate connections” by taking into account the main parameters of the problems the ultimate
behaviour of column base-plate connections is studied and the corresponding M-P curves were
obtained. The parameters considered were the size and thickness of the plate, the size, length and
location of anchor rods, the amount of axial load on the column and the quality of material used.
Finally form the M-P curves the safety of the connections was checked.
Thevendran et al [14]: In the paper “Nonlinear analysis of steel-concrete composite beams
curved in plan” behavior of steel-concrete composite beams curved in plan are dealt with. The
study of nonlinear behavior and ultimate load carrying capacity of such beams was done using
finite element program ‘ABAQUS’. The behavior of concrete slab and steel girder were
simulated using shell elements and shear stud elements were simulated using rigid beams.
Finally, a comparison was drawn between the proposed finite element model and the available
experimental results to validate the results.
Drake R and Elkin S [13]: In the paper “Beam-Column base plate design – LRFD method” a
methodology for the design of beam-column base plates and anchor rods using factored load
directly in the manner consistent with the equation of equilibrium and LFRD specification were
represented. Two design examples were presented and a comparison was made with the problem
solved by another AISC method. Finally, it was concluded that uniform rectangular 10 pressure
distribution will be easier to design and program than the linear triangular pressure distribution
utilized in allowable stress design and other published LFRD publications.
Sebastian W and McConnel R [12]: In the paper “Nonlinear finite element analysis of steel-
concrete composite structure” the elements used to represent the concrete slab and steel beam
actions are described. Also, a demonstration on how to model ribbed composite slabs of

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reinforced concrete on profiled steel sheeting was done. Attention was drawn to the usefulness of
layering technique to decide local stress redistribution associated with progressive through-depth
cracking and yielding in the slab and steel beam elements. Predicted crack patterns and the use of
the program gave the desired results and these are used to compare very well with those from
experiments on reinforced concrete slabs and steel-concrete composite structures up to failure.

Liew et al [10]: In the paper “Inelastic analysis of steel frames with composite beams” method
was described for inelastic analysis of frames with composite floor beams subjected to the
combined action of gravity and lateral loads. To model the composite beams based on moment-
curvature relationship am inelastic formulation was proposed and to model steel columns plastic
hinge approach was proposed. For the accuracy of these models two composite beams and steel
portal frames were analyzed and results for the same were compared with the test results.
Finally, the study showed that the limit load of steel frames while considering the composite
beam effect is about 30% higher than pure steel frame.
Chan [9]: In the paper “Non-Linear behavior and design of steel structures” the summary and
reviews of various works conducted on the non-linear analysis and design of steel frames in past
few decades was addressed. Finally, with the design procedure NIDA (developed by Chan) it
was recognized that the elastic approach is not an economical design due to the ignorance of
reserved strength after first yield or first plastic hinge.
Hag-Elsafi et al [8]: In the paper “New procedure for design of end plates and base plates of
cantilevered traffic support structures” a new procedure was developed for design of end plates
and base plates, and for base plates of span-wire-mounted traffic-signal structures. The procedure
developed was based on beam-and-plate bending and torsion theory. Also, the procedure
developed was intended for plates of square configuration. Finally, the plate stresses and
thickness obtained from the procedure were compared well with those estimated from finite
element analysis and supported earlier conclusions reached through physical testing.
Spacone E and Tawil S [7]: In the paper “Nonlinear analysis of steel-concrete composite
structure” the focus was on the frame elements. First section models were presented (resultant
and fiber models). Models with lumped and distributed inelasticity were covered. Partially
restrained and rigid joints were reviewed and discussed at length. Modelling application of the

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analysis of composite frames was also presented. This paper was the State of the art review on
composite structures.

2.2 Field of research

The transfer of shear and tension forces from steel to concrete has received considerable
attention from a variety of scientists, researchers, instructors, and engineers. Even though various
authors differ on the interpretation of test data and on design methodology, there is widespread
agreement of the best type of load transfer mechanism.

Headed anchor bolts, when properly designed and detailed, are recommended as the most
efficient mechanisms for anchoring steel to concrete For large shear forces the use of shear lugs
on the bottom of the base plate has been proposed as an efficient transfer device. Shear lugs may
be used as part of an anchorage connection but the ductility of the connection must be insured.
Other anchorage devices (L-bolts, J-bolts, embedded rods with bearing plates, etc.) have been
used but are not recommended. The headed anchor bolt, when correctly embedded and confined,
will develop the full tensile capacity of even A490 high strength bolts. A tensile failure of the
anchor bolt steel or the shear lug steel in bending will insure a ductile failure mode for non-
cyclic loadings in a normal temperature range for the type of anchorage steel considered.
The design of base plate anchorages loaded in shear and tension is a complex subject. Previous
articles have addressed the entire design while others have concentrated on various parts of the
design. The literature review presented here has been organized based on the potential loading
conditions; shear, tension and combined shear and tension. The foundation subjects of edge
effects, edge reinforcing, embedment length, base plate configuration, and bolt spacing are
addressed within the individual loading conditions. Shear lugs are addressed as a separate topic
at the end of the review.
The limit states or failure modes controlling the capacity of a headed anchor bolt are:
1. Tensile strength of the anchor.
2. Shear strength of the anchor.
3. The pullout cone of concrete at the anchor.
4. The failure of the concrete due to various edge conditions.

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Shear forces in only one direction are considered in this paper. Moments applied to a base plate
are not addressed. Other references (i.e., Design of Welded Structures by Blodgett and Structural
Steel Design by Beedle) resolve an applied moment on a base plate into shear and tension forces
on the anchorage devices.
2.3 Shear
The transfer of shear forces, as stated above, may best be accomplished by either a ductile shear
lug or properly embedded and confined headed anchor bolts. The transfer of shear by a headed
anchor bolt is through bearing of steel against concrete. It is assumed that the bearing of an
anchor bolt causes the concrete ahead of the anchorage device to crush near the surface. Previous
articles have detailed the development of a concrete wedge at this bearing condition. The base
plate prevents the wedge from moving outward and upward. The restriction of the upward
movement of the wedge by the base plate creates a tension force on the anchor bolt. This is the
"shear friction" concept.
The design criteria for the transfer of shear forces by headed anchor bolts must respond to the
various modes of failure. These failure mechanisms have been addressed previously and were
compiled and compared in Reference

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