ABSTRACT
Many sections with a width to thickness ratio 2γ > 35 can be found in EN10219–2:2004. However, due to the restrictions in EN1993–1-8, they have normally to be excluded from use. Therefore, for joints with these slender sections, experimental investigations have been carried out at Karlsruhe University to extend the limiting range. The results of these investigations are evaluated according to EN1990:2002 for the maximum loads Ni.max from the tests as well as loads Ni.u obtained by applying a deformation limit (ultimate loads). Furthermore, gap sizes smaller than those permitted by EN1993–1-8:2005 are also investigated. The results presented in this paper are intended to provide supplementary information to help extend the design rules for slender RHS joints and small gaps g < g min. The work is presently being further evaluated using an extended numerical study, which will be presented elsewhere.
