On Convergence of Yield Line Theory and Experimental Test Capacity ofRHS K- and T-Joints

Abstract The capacity of 54 RHS K-joints experimentally tested at low temperatures and 28 T-joints tested at room temperature was calculated using yield line theory and Cidect or EC3 formulae. Most of the joints did not meet the joint geometry validity criteria of Cidect. The yield line method was modified to take into account stress biaxiality, reductions due to out-of-plane shear stress, axial membrane stress and the true location of plastic hinges. The results of K-joint tests, where the gap between the braces was too narrow compared to recomendations, show predominantly ductile fracture behaviour and acceptable convergence between the yield line theory, EC3 predictions and test yield capacity. The test capacities of T -joints not meeting the size requirements of Cidect were in agreement with the Cidect recommendations. Keywords; Capacity, RHS-Joints, Static Loading, Experimental Tests, Yield Line Theory.