DIRECTIONAL MOMENT CONNECTIONS - A PROPOSED DESIGN METHOD FOR UNBRACED STEEL FRAMES.

Abstract

This paper proposes a simple new design procedure which eliminates the need for fully rigid connections in unbraced frames. Based on a more realistic analysis of the loading-unloading behavior of beam-to-column connections, the procedure results in more efficient connections and columns and, at the same time, permits the girders to be utilized to their maximum strength and stiffness. Included in this paper is a rational method for determining the effective length of columns in unbraced frames when the connections are designed for a moment capacity less than that of the girder.