MOMENT-ROTATION CHARACTERISTICS OF SHEAR CONNECTIONS

Abstract

Extensive series of 24 tests was carried out to investigate the effect of moment-rotation on the connection behavior of end plate thickness, beam depth, number of rows of bolts and gage. With gages of 4 or 5 1/2 in. , plate thicknesses of 1/4-, 3/8- or 1/2- in. , and with 2 to 6 rows of bolts, a large range in flexibility was achieved. The steel was nominally G-40. 12 with measured yield points of 48 to 57 ksi and welds were made with E7018 electrodes. All bolts were 3/4-in. diam A325 bolts. All tests were conducted at a constant lever arm of 4 ft. Based on visual observations, all end plate connections exhibited the same behavior.