ABSTRACT
Most structures’ failure occurs at a connection. Accordingly, the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) has placed a lot of emphasis on connections and has brought out separate detailed design specifications related to connections in the 2005 Steel Design Manual. Steel connections are made by bolting and welding; riveting is obsolete now. Bolting of steel structures is rapid and requires less skilled labor. On the other hand, welding is simple and many complex connections with bolts become very simple when welds are used. But the requirements of skilled workers and inspections make welding difficult and costly, which can be partially overcome by shop welding instead of field welding. When a combination is used, welding can be done in the shop and bolting in the field.
