Analytical study of end-plate connection on cruciform column section

Abstract

This paper presents an analytical study on flush end-plate (FEP) and extended end-plate (EEP) connections connected to cruciform column section using component method. The objective of this study is to predict the moment resistance and initial stiffness of FEP and EEP connections on cruciform column section. A series of FEP and EEP connections are tested in laboratory. The connection tests consist of four FEP and four EEP specimens with different configuration. Component method outlined in the publication of Steel Construction Institute and British Constructional Steelwork Association are based on BS5950 and Eurocode 3 (EC3) are used to predict the moment resistance and initial stiffness of the tested specimens. The experimental results are then used to validate the analytical predictions. As compare to the experimental results, all moment resistance of the connections coincide well with analytical predictions. Analytical prediction for initial stiffness using EC3 does not show good agreement with the experimental results. This study shows that the component method can be used to predict the moment resistance of FEP and EEP connections on cruciform column section. Further study need to be carried out for initial stiffness to obtain accurate analytical representation.