ABSTRACT
SUMMARY
After reviewing the historical practice, this chapter discusses the effects of connection flexibility on frame behaviour; in general it seems advantageous to assume linear elastic behaviour under working loads for computational purposes.
The extent to which the moments on the beams and columns are affected by connection flexibility is explored by studying a number of examples; it is shown that the neglect of connection rotation leads to serious underestimation of frame deflections.
A nonlinear analytical procedure is suggested, but appears to be unsuitable for routine design office practice; however, computerised design of flexibly connected building frames is possible and appears useful in the design office.
