ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT: Endplate connections are extensively used and have some advantages over fully restrained connections used in steel building structures. They are designated as partially restrained connections and possess more ductility without much loss in moment carrying capacity. The moment-rotation behavior of endplate connections has been investigated both experimentally and numerically. Some researchers have attempted to use limited test data to develop empirical equations for the moment-rotation curve of an endplate connection. Such mathematical models can be developed if moment-rotation data is available for a large number of connections that cover the possible range of variations of all relevant geometric and force related variables. In practice, a large number of such variables affect the moment-rotation behavior of a connection. Moreover, these variables can vary over a wide range to design connections with different capacities. It is too costly to obtain such data by physically testing for all possible designs of connections. On the other hand, if a computer program can be calibrated against results recorded from physical tests for selected cases and its predicting capability be demonstrated, then it could be used as a tool to simulate the behavior of any given connection in lieu of actual physical tests. Then a combination of limited physical testing and more computer simulations will be the most judicious approach to develop mathematical models that describe the moment-rotation behavior of endplate connections.
