Shear lag effects in steel tension members

Abstract

This paper reviews the shear lag provisions for welded steel tension members relative to those for bolted members, and makes recommendations for pertinent AISC specification changes. Experimentally, three different member types and three different weld configurations were considered. Results of the experimental research program in which 27 welded tension members were loaded to failure is presented. Longitudinal stresses were determined analytically in a finite element study. Experimental strains were determined directly from tensile tests. The analytical and experimental stress patterns in the elastic region were compared and shear lag criteria are recommended based on the experimental results. The implementation of the recommended changes to AISC specifications and commentaries would result in a simpler, more uniform approach to the application of shear lag provisions to bolted and welded tension members.