ABSTRACT
The component method is an approach used in EN 1993-1-8:2005 for the design of steel joints. It enables to take into account the stiffness of joints in the global analysis, which is particularly important in the optimization of frames with semi-rigid joints. Recently, the component method has been proposed as a unified approach for the design of a wide range of joints, including hollow section joints, although some issues remain unsolved, particularly the design of initial stiffness. This paper considers the component method for rectangular hollow section T joints under biaxial bending and axial force loading. The paper develops the component model from a combination of springs and provides the design procedures for the resistance and initial stiffness of the joint. Finally, the paper validates the method with the experimental and numerical data available in the literature and discusses the most challenging issues to be solved in the future.
