THE BEHAVIOUR OF FRAMES WITH FLEXIBLE CONNECTIONS

The so-called rigid connections in real frames are seldom rigid, and instead contribute to the deflection behaviour of the frame. In conventional practice this is usually ignored. The present paper is a first step in the analysis of the significance of connection flexibility, allowing for both elastic and plastic behaviour of frame members. It is shown that existing formulae for prediction of connection behaviour of bolted end plated connections are inadequate and that connection flexibility can make a significant contribution to frame deflection. However, this contribution varies in magnitude with load level and frame flexibility. A wide spectrum of realistic frames needs to be examined to assess the importance of connection flexibility for designers. (Author/TRRL)