Bending Tests of Bolted End Plate Connections in Cold Formed Rectangular Hollow Sections (No. R736)

Abstract

The research report describes an experimental investigation into the flexural behaviour of bolted end plate connections joining cold formed square and rectangular hollow sections. A total of twenty six (26) specimens, joined at midspan using a bolted end plate connection then loaded under four point bending, were tested in a servo-controlled testing machine. The primary aim of the investigation was to evaluate the effect of various end plate parameters on the connection strength and serviceability. The results of the bending tests are tabulated in the report, and graphs detailing the behaviour of each specimen are also presented. The experimental data will facilitate the development and verification of design models for the bolted moment end plate connection joining rectangular section tubes, and will provide data on the non-linear moment rotation characteristics of the connection.