Analytical <i>M</i> -θ Curves for End-Plate Connections

Abstract

Analytical methodology has been developed and validated, to determine moment-rotation curves and equations for steel bolted end-plate connections. A parameter study was conducted on 168 connections for 559 loading conditions, by two-dimensional finite element analysis. Special features of the computer program and modeling are described. From the results, a prediction equation has been generated by regression analysis, to give the connection rotation as a function of the beam and plate dimensions, bolt sizes and location, and material properties. Comparison of predicted and experimentally observed results is presented for a typical case. Practical applications of the findings are covered.