An extension of the wind-moment method (WMM) to cover the design of a limited range of unbraced composite frames is proposed. This is based on careful examination of the findings from an extensive numerical study, the details of which are elsewhere. Both the ultimate and the serviceability limit states are considered, and a complete design procedure suitable for implementation in spreadsheet form is presented. J. S. Hensman, MEng, MPhil, CEng, MICE Caunton Engineering Ltd Professor D. A. Nethercot, FREng, PhD, DSc, FIStructE, FICE Imperial College of Science, Technology & Medicine
A new method of reinforcing the compression zone of end plate connections, using threaded rod, has been developed recently at the University of Leeds. A system of rods is locked against the inner flange faces of the column to transmit the horizontal compression force between opposing beams. The method has evolved alongside related work on tension zone reinforcement and offers particular advantages for connections subject to reversible loading. This paper illustrates the technique and presents design models for various stiffener configurations. Predicted capacities are compared with selected loading test results and an interim design procedure is proposed. J. O. Surtees BSc, CEng, FIStructE, MICE School of Civil Engineering, University of Leeds T. F. Nip BSc, MSc School of Civil Engineering, University of Leeds