Design moment of shear connections at the ultimate limit state

Shear connections develop moment under the rotational demand imposed on them by the supported beam. This paper proposes a semi-analytical approach for computing the moment of single-angle, double-angle and end-plate shear connections corresponding to the strength limit state of their supported beam. The connection moment equations are derived based on the observed yieldline mechanisms from various experimental tests on the shear connections. The approach takes into account major parameters such as connection plate thickness, angle length, bolt gauge and steel yield strength. The obtained equations can also be used to estimate the compression zone depth and tension zone force. Good agreement between the theoretical analysis results and the various test data is demonstrated. Finally, suggestions are given for applying the approach to design shear connections.