ABSTRACT
The results of an experimental investigation into the connector behaviour of an innovative, ultra long-spanning, hybrid steel deck are presented. The deck serves as a combined formwork and reinforcement system that can span up to 8 metres without propping while supporting wet concrete. Round press-joints (in particular TOX®) are used to establish the mechanical connections between the main components, which produce a cellular section. An extensive series of small-scale tests on the performance of the connectors has been undertaken to determine their maximum load capacities, as well as their load-slip and load-separation behaviour. Numerous material combinations were tested in a specially designed loading frame, which allows the load to be applied at any loading angle. The results give a good understanding of the behaviour of these complex connections and establish an interactive relationship in combined shear and tension.
