e

E x a m p l e : F i n p l a t

g
Document Ref: SX013a-EN-GB Sheet 1 of 15
c

CALCULATION SHEET
i

Title Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection

e

Eurocode Ref EN 1993-1-8, EN1993-1-1

r

Made by Mary Brettle Date Dec 2006

D

Checked by Abdul Malik Date Jan 2007

y

Localized resource for UK

p

Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange

,

connection
o

This example presents a method for calculating the shear resistance and
y

tying resistance of a "Simple Joint" for a fin plate beam-to-column-flange

c

connection. The bolted connection uses non-preloaded bolts (i.e. Category

A: Bearing type bolted connection).
a

For completeness, all the design checks listed below should be carried out.
d

However, in practice, for “normal” connections, the checks marked * will

s

usually be the critical ones. In this example, only checks marked with an *
s

are shown in detail. For other checks, reference should be made to the NCCIs
i

for Shear resistance [SN017] and for Tying resistance [SN018].

e

Before evaluating resistances, checks are made to ensure sufficient rotation

capacity and to avoid premature weld failure.
u
l

Joint Shear Resistance

T
a

Table 1: Shear resistance of fin plate connection

i

Mode of failure
Bolts in shear* VRd,1
n
r

Fin plate in bearing* VRd,2

Fin plate in shear (gross section) VRd,3
o
e

Fin plate in shear (net section) VRd,4

Fin plate in shear (block shear) VRd,5
Fin plate in bending VRd,6
t

Fin plate in buckling (LTB) VRd,7

Beam web in bearing* VRd,8
d
a

Beam web in shear (gross section) VRd,9

Beam web in shear (net section) VRd,10
e
m

Beam web in shear (block shear) VRd,11

Supporting element (punching shear) (This mode not appropriate for
t

fin plate connection to column

flange)
a
s

The shear resistance of the joint is the minimum of the above values.
e
i
h
r
C
T
Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection (GB)

CALCULATION SHEET Document Ref: SX013a-EN-GB Sheet 2 of 15

Title Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection

Eurocode Ref EN 1993-1-8, EN1993-1-1

Made by Mary Brettle Date Dec 2006
Checked by Abdul Malik Date Jan 2007

Joint Tying Resistance

Table 2: Tying resistance of fin plate connection

Mode of failure
Bolts in shear* NRd,u,1
Fin plate in bearing* NRd,u,2
Fin plate in tension (block tearing) NRd,u,3
Fin plate in tension (net section) NRd,u,4
Beam web in bearing* NRd,u,5
Beam web in tension (block tearing) NRd,u,6
Beam web in tension (net section) NRd,u,7
Supporting member in bending (This mode not appropriate
for fin plate connection to
column flange)
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The tying resistance of the joint is the minimum of the above values.

A summary of the resistance values (shear and tying) for all modes of failure
is given in page 14.

Checks to ensure sufficient ductility are given in page 15.

Created on Tuesday, December 04, 2007
Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection (GB)

CALCULATION SHEET Document Ref: SX013a-EN-GB Sheet 3 of 15

Title Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection

Eurocode Ref EN 1993-1-8, EN1993-1-1

Made by Mary Brettle Date Dec 2006
Checked by Abdul Malik Date Jan 2007

Fin Plate Connection – Details

M20, 8.8
S275
UC203x46
UKC 203x
S275
203x46
S275
UUKB
B305x165x40
S305x165x40
275
S275

a = 5 mm
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gh 10 35
gv

e1,b
e1 45
a
p1 70
hp 230
p1 70
e1 45

e2 he
e 2,b1 50 50 a = 5 mm
z S275 60
S276
bp 230 x 110 x 10
n1 = 3 n 2= 1

Main joint data

Configuration Beam to column flange
Column UKC 203x203x46, S275
Created on Tuesday, December 04, 2007

Beam UKB 305x165x40, S275

Type of connection Fin plate connection using non-preloaded bolts EN1993-1-8
(Category A: Bearing type connection) §3.4.1
Fin plate 230 × 110 × 10, S275
Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection (GB)

CALCULATION SHEET Document Ref: SX013a-EN-GB Sheet 4 of 15

Title Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection

Eurocode Ref EN 1993-1-8, EN1993-1-1

Made by Mary Brettle Date Dec 2006
Checked by Abdul Malik Date Jan 2007

Column UKC 203x203x46, S235 BS4

Depth h = 203.2 mm Corus
Advance
Width b = 203.6 mm
Thickness of the web tw,c = 7.2 mm
Thickness of the flange tf,c = 11 mm
Fillet radius r = 10.2 mm
Area A = 58.7cm2
Second moment of area Iy = 4570 cm4
Yield strength fy,c = 275 N/mm2
Ultimate tensile strength fu,c = 430 N/mm2

UKB 305x165x40, S275 BS4

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Depth h = 303.4 mm Corus

Advance
Width b = 165 mm
Thickness of the web tw,b1 = 6.0 mm
Thickness of the flange tf,b1 = 10.2mm
Fillet radius r = 8.9 mm
Area A = 51.3 cm2
Second moment of area Iy = 8500 cm4
Yield strength fy,b1 = 275 N/mm2
Ultimate tensile strength fu,b1 = 430 N/mm2

Fin plate 230 × 110 × 10, S275

Vertical gap gv = 35 mm
Horizontal gap (end beam to column flange) gh = 10 mm
Depth hp = 230 mm
Width bp = 110 mm
Thickness tp = 10 mm
Yield strength fy,p = 275 N/mm2
Created on Tuesday, December 04, 2007

Ultimate tensile strength fu,p = 430 N/mm2

Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection (GB)

CALCULATION SHEET Document Ref: SX013a-EN-GB Sheet 5 of 15

Title Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection

Eurocode Ref EN 1993-1-8, EN1993-1-1

Made by Mary Brettle Date Dec 2006
Checked by Abdul Malik Date Jan 2007

Direction of load transfer (1)

Number of bolt rows n1 =3
Plate edge to first bolt row el = 45 mm
Beam edge to first bolt row el,b = 80 mm
Pitch between bolt rows pl = 70 mm

Direction perpendicular to load transfer (2)

Number of vertical lines of bolts n2 =1
Plate edge to first bolt line e2 = 50 mm
Beam edge to last bolt line e2,b = 50 mm
Lever arm z = 60 mm
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Bolts – Non-preloaded, M20 class 8.8

Total number of bolts ( n = n1 × n2 ) n =3
Tensile stress area As = 245 mm2
Diameter of the shank d = 20 mm
Diameter of the holes d0 = 22 mm
Yield strength fyb = 640 N/mm2
Ultimate tensile strength fub = 800 N/mm2

Welds
Throat thickness of the weld a = 5 mm

Partial Safety factors

γMO = 1.0
γM2 = 1.25 (for shear resistance at ULS)
γM,u = 1.1 (for tying resistance at ULS)

Design shear force (at ULS)

Created on Tuesday, December 04, 2007

VEd = 100 kN
Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection (GB)

CALCULATION SHEET Document Ref: SX013a-EN-GB Sheet 6 of 15

Title Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection

Eurocode Ref EN 1993-1-8, EN1993-1-1

Made by Mary Brettle Date Dec 2006
Checked by Abdul Malik Date Jan 2007

Rotation requirement SN016 and

SN017
It is assumed that there is sufficient rotation capacity, because the details
(Section 17)
given in NCCI, SN016 have been adopted.

Weld design
For S275 fin plate, ensure throat thickness a ≥ 0.48 tp
a = 5 mm SN017
(Section 15)
0.48 tp = 0.48 x 10 = 4.8 mm
Since a > 0.48 tp weld is OK

Joint shear resistance

Bolts in shear
n Fv, Rd SN017
VRd,1 =
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(1 + α n )2 + (β n )2

The shear resistance of a single bolt, Fv,Rd is given by: Table 3.4 of
EN1993-1-8
α v f ub A
Fv,Rd =
γ M2
where:
γ M2 = 1.25 for shear resistance
αv = 0.6 for class 8.8 bolts

A = A s = 245 mm2
0.6 × 800 × 245
∴ Fv,Rd = × 10 −3 = 94.1 kN
1.25

For a single vertical line of bolts (i.e. n2 = 1 and n = n1 ), α = 0 and

6z 6 × 60
β = = = 0.43
n (n + 1)p1 3 × 4 × 70
Created on Tuesday, December 04, 2007

3 × 94.1
∴ VRd,1 = = 173 kN
(1 + 0 × 3) + (0.43 × 3)
2 2
Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection (GB)

CALCULATION SHEET Document Ref: SX013a-EN-GB Sheet 7 of 15

Title Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection

Eurocode Ref EN 1993-1-8, EN1993-1-1

Made by Mary Brettle Date Dec 2006
Checked by Abdul Malik Date Jan 2007

Fin plate in bearing

n SN017
VRd,2 =
2 2
⎛ 1+α n ⎞ ⎛ β n ⎞
⎜ ⎟ +⎜ ⎟
⎜F ⎟ ⎜F ⎟
⎝ b, Rd, ver ⎠ ⎝ b, Rd, hor ⎠

For a single vertical line of bolts (i.e. n2 = 1 and n = n1)

α =0
β = 0.43 (as above)

The bearing resistance of a single bolt, Fb,Rd is given by: Table 3.4 of
EN1993-1-8
k1α b f u d t
Fb,Rd =
γ M2
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Therefore vertical bearing resistance of a single bolt on fin plate, Fb,Rd,ver is:
k1α b f u,p d t p
Fb,Rd, ver =
γ M2

where:
⎛ e p1 1 f ub ⎞
αb = min⎜ 1 ; − ; ; 1 .0 ⎟
⎜ 3d 3d 0 4 f u,p ⎟
⎝ 0 ⎠
⎛ e ⎞
k1 = min⎜⎜ 2.8 2 − 1.7; 2.5 ⎟⎟
⎝ do ⎠
45
e1 / 3d 0 = = 0.68
3 × 22
70 1
p1 / 3d 0 − 1 / 4 = − = 0.81
3 × 22 4
800
f ub / f u,p = = 1.86
430
∴ αb = min (0.68; 0.81; 1.86; 1.0) = 0.68
Created on Tuesday, December 04, 2007
Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection (GB)

CALCULATION SHEET Document Ref: SX013a-EN-GB Sheet 8 of 15

Title Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection

Eurocode Ref EN 1993-1-8, EN1993-1-1

Made by Mary Brettle Date Dec 2006
Checked by Abdul Malik Date Jan 2007

2.8 × 50
2.8e 2 / d 0 − 1.7 = − 1.7 = 4.66
22
∴ k1 = min (4.66; 2.5) = 2.5
2.5 × 0.68 × 430 × 20 × 10
∴ Fb,Rd,ver = × 10 −3 = 117.0 kN
1.25

Similarly, horizontal bearing resistance of a single bolt on fin plate, Fb,Rd,hor is:
k1α b f u,p d t p
Fb,Rd,hor =
γ M2
where:
⎛ e f ub ⎞
αb = min⎜ 2 ; ; 1.0 ⎟
⎜ 3d f u,p ⎟
⎝ o ⎠
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⎛ e p1 ⎞
k1 = min⎜⎜ 2.8 1 − 1.7; 1.4 − 1.7; 2.5 ⎟⎟
⎝ do do ⎠

50
e 2 / 3d 0 = = 0.76
3 × 22
800
f ub / f u,p = = 1.86
430
∴ αb = min (0.76; 1.86; 1.0 ) = 0.76
2.8 × 45
2.8e1 / d 0 − 1.7 = − 1.7 = 4.03
22
1.4 × 70
1.4p1 / d 0 − 1.7 = − 1.7 = 2.75
22
∴ k1 = min (4.03; 2.75; 2.5) = 2.5
2.5 × 0.76 × 430 × 20 × 10
∴ Fb,Rd,hor = × 10 −3 = 130.7 kN
1.25

3
VRd,2 = = 229.8 kN
Created on Tuesday, December 04, 2007

⎛ 1 + 0 × 3 ⎞ ⎛ 0.43 × 3 ⎞
2 2

⎜ ⎟ +⎜ ⎟
⎝ 117.0 ⎠ ⎝ 130.7 ⎠
Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection (GB)

CALCULATION SHEET Document Ref: SX013a-EN-GB Sheet 9 of 15

Title Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection

Eurocode Ref EN 1993-1-8, EN1993-1-1

Made by Mary Brettle Date Dec 2006
Checked by Abdul Malik Date Jan 2007

Beam web in bearing

n SN017
VRd,8 =
2 2
⎛ 1+α n ⎞ ⎛ β n ⎞
⎜ ⎟ +⎜ ⎟
⎜F ⎟ ⎜F ⎟
⎝ b, Rd, ver ⎠ ⎝ b, Rd, hor ⎠
For a single vertical line of bolts (i.e. n2 = 1 and n = n1)
α =0
β = 0.43 (as above)

The bearing resistance of a single bolt, Fb,Rd is given by: Table 3.4 of
EN1993-1-8
k1α b f u d t
Fb,Rd =
γ M2
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Therefore vertical bearing resistance of a single bolt on beam web, Fb,Rd,ver is:
k1α b f u, b1 d t w, b1
Fb, Rd, ver =
γ M2

where:
⎛ p 1 f ub ⎞
αb = min⎜⎜ 1 − ; ; 1.0 ⎟⎟
⎝ 3d 0 4 f u,b1 ⎠
⎛ e ⎞
k1 = min⎜⎜ 2.8 2,b − 1.7 ; 2.5 ⎟⎟
⎝ d0 ⎠
p1 1 70 1
− = − = 0.81
3d 0 4 3 × 22 4
f ub 800
= = 1.86
f u,b1 430

∴ αb = min(0.81; 1.86; 1.0) = 0.81

2.8 × 50
2.8e 2,b / d 0 − 1.7 = − 1.7 = 4.66
Created on Tuesday, December 04, 2007

22
∴ k1 = min (4.66; 2.5) = 2.5
2.5 × 0.81 × 430 × 20 × 6
∴ Fb,Rd,ver = × 10 −3 = 83.6 kN
1.25
Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection (GB)

CALCULATION SHEET Document Ref: SX013a-EN-GB Sheet 10 of 15

Title Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection

Eurocode Ref EN 1993-1-8, EN1993-1-1

Made by Mary Brettle Date Dec 2006
Checked by Abdul Malik Date Jan 2007

Similarly, horizontal bearing resistance of a single bolt on beam web, Fb,Rd,hor

is:
k1α b f u, b1d t w, b1
Fb, Rd, hor =
γ M2
where:
⎛e f ub ⎞
αb = min ⎜⎜ 2,b ; ; 1.0 ⎟⎟
⎝ 3d o f u,b1 ⎠
⎛ p ⎞
k1 = min⎜⎜1.4 1 − 1.7; 2.5 ⎟⎟
⎝ do ⎠

50
e 2,b / 3d 0 = = 0.76
3 × 22
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800
f ub / f u,b1 = = 1.86
430
∴ αb = min (0.76; 1.86; 1.0 ) = 0.76
1.4 × 70
1.4p1 / d 0 − 1.7 = − 1.7 = 2.75
22
∴ k1 = min (2.75; 2.5) = 2.5
2.5 × 0.76 × 430 × 20 × 6
∴ Fb,Rd,hor = × 10 −3 = 78.4 kN
1.25

3
VRd,8 = = 147.5 kN
⎛ 1 + 0 × 3 ⎞ ⎛ 0.43 × 3 ⎞
2 2

⎜ ⎟ +⎜ ⎟
⎝ 83.6 ⎠ ⎝ 78.4 ⎠
Created on Tuesday, December 04, 2007
Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection (GB)

CALCULATION SHEET Document Ref: SX013a-EN-GB Sheet 11 of 15

Title Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection

Eurocode Ref EN 1993-1-8, EN1993-1-1

Made by Mary Brettle Date Dec 2006
Checked by Abdul Malik Date Jan 2007

Joint tying resistance

Bolts in shear
N Rd,u,1 = nFv,Rd,u
Table 3.4 in
EN1993-1-8
Fv,Rd,u = α v f ub A / γ M,u
where:
γ M,u = 1.1 for tying resistance

αv = 0.6 for grade 8.8 bolts

A = As = 245 mm2
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0.6 × 800 × 245

∴ Fv,Rd,u = × 10 −3 = 106.9 kN
1.1
∴ N Rd,u,1 = 3 ×106.9 = 320.7 kN
Created on Tuesday, December 04, 2007
Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection (GB)

CALCULATION SHEET Document Ref: SX013a-EN-GB Sheet 12 of 15

Title Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection

Eurocode Ref EN 1993-1-8, EN1993-1-1

Made by Mary Brettle Date Dec 2006
Checked by Abdul Malik Date Jan 2007

Fin plate in bearing

N Rd,u,2 = nFb,Rd,u,hor
The bearing resistance of a single bolt, Fb,Rd is given by:
Table 3.4 of
k1α b f u d t
Fb,Rd = EN1993-1-8
γ M,u
Therefore for tying, horizontal bearing resistance of a single bolt on the fin
plate, Fb,Rd,u,hor is:
k1α b f u,p d t p
Fb,Rd,u,hor =
γ M,u
where:
⎛ e f ub ⎞
= min⎜ 2 ; ; 1.0 ⎟
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αb
⎜ 3d f u,p ⎟
⎝ o ⎠
⎛ e p1 ⎞
k1 = min⎜⎜ 2.8 1 − 1.7; 1.4 − 1.7; 2.5 ⎟⎟
⎝ do do ⎠
γ M,u = 1.1 for tying resistance

e2 50
= = 0.76
3d o 3 × 22
f ub / f u,p = 800 / 430 = 1.86

∴ αb = min (0.76; 1.86; 1.0 ) = 0.76

e1 2.8 × 45
2.8 − 1.7 = − 1.7 = 4.03
do 22
p1 1.4 × 70
1.4 − 1.7 = − 1.7 = 2.75
do 22
∴ k1 = min (4.03; 2.75; 2.5) = 2.5
2.5 × 0.76 × 430 × 20 × 10
∴ Fb,Rd,u,hor = × 10 −3 = 148.5 kN
1 .1
Created on Tuesday, December 04, 2007

∴ N Rd,u,2 = 3 ×148.5 = 445.5 kN

Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection (GB)

CALCULATION SHEET Document Ref: SX013a-EN-GB Sheet 13 of 15

Title Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection

Eurocode Ref EN 1993-1-8, EN1993-1-1

Made by Mary Brettle Date Dec 2006
Checked by Abdul Malik Date Jan 2007

Beam web in bearing

N Rd,u,5 = nFb,Rd,u,hor
The bearing resistance of a single bolt, Fb,Rd is given by:
Table 3.4 of
k1α b f u d t
Fb,Rd = EN1993-1-8
γ M,u
Therefore horizontal bearing resistance of a single bolt on the beam web,
Fb,Rd,u,hor is:

k1α b f u,b1d t w,b1

Fb,Rd,u,hor =
γ M,u
where:
⎛e ⎞
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f ub
αb = min⎜⎜ 2,b ; ; 1.0 ⎟⎟
⎝ 3d o f u,b1 ⎠
⎛ p ⎞
k1 = min⎜⎜1.4 1 − 1.7; 2.5 ⎟⎟
⎝ do ⎠
γ M,u = 1.1 for tying resistance

e 2 ,b 50
= = 0.76
3d o 3 × 22
f ub / f u,b1 = 800 / 430 = 1.86

∴ αb = min (0.76; 1.86; 1.0 ) = 0.76

p1 1.4 × 70
1.4 − 1.7 = − 1.7 = 2.75
do 22
∴ k1 = min (2.75; 2.5) = 2.5
2.5 × 0.76 × 430 × 20 × 6
∴ Fb,Rd,u,hor = × 10 −3 = 89.1 kN
1 .1
∴ N Rd,u,5 = 3 × 89.1 = 267.3 kN
Created on Tuesday, December 04, 2007
Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection (GB)

CALCULATION SHEET Document Ref: SX013a-EN-GB Sheet 14 of 15

Title Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection

Eurocode Ref EN 1993-1-8, EN1993-1-1

Made by Mary Brettle Date Dec 2006
Checked by Abdul Malik Date Jan 2007

Summary
The following tables summarize the resistance values for all the applicable
modes of failure. Calculation of the values given in shaded boxes is not
presented in this worked example. The governing value (i.e. the minimum
value) for each of the shear and tying resistances is shown in bold type.

Mode of failure Joint shear resistance

Bolts in shear VRd,1 173 kN

Fin plate in bearing VRd,2 230 kN

Fin plate in shear (gross section) VRd,3 288 kN

Fin plate in shear (net section) VRd,4 326 kN

Fin plate in shear (block shear) VRd,5 274 kN

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Fin plate in bending VRd,6 N/A

Fin plate buckling VRd,7 909 kN

Beam web in bearing VRd,8 148 kN

Beam web in shear (gross section) VRd,9 319 kN

Beam web in shear (net section) VRd,10 259 kN

Beam web in shear (block shear) VRd,11 197 kN

Mode of failure Joint tying resistance

Bolts in shear NRd,u,1 321 kN

Fin plate in bearing NRd,u,2 446 kN

Fin plate in tension (block tearing) NRd,u,3 773 kN

Fin plate in tension (net section) NRd,u,4 577 kN

Beam web in bearing NRd,u,5 267 kN

Created on Tuesday, December 04, 2007

Beam web in tension (block tearing) NRd,u,6 464 kN

Beam web in tension (net section) NRd,u,7 346 kN

Supporting member in bending NRd,u,8 N/A

Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection (GB)

CALCULATION SHEET Document Ref: SX013a-EN-GB Sheet 15 of 15

Title Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection

Eurocode Ref EN 1993-1-8, EN1993-1-1

Made by Mary Brettle Date Dec 2006
Checked by Abdul Malik Date Jan 2007

Ductility
To ensure adequate ductility, the following requirements must be satisfied
• VRd < min(VRd,1; VRd,7 ) and SN017

• If VRd = VRd,3; VRd,4 ; VRd,5 ; VRd,6 ; VRd,9 ; VRd,10 or VRd,11 then

VRd,1 > min(VRd,2 ; VRd,8 )

From the Summary table:
VRd = VRd,8 = 148 kN
VRd,1 = 173 kN
VRd,7 = 909 kN
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Since 148 kN < 173 kN and the second condition is not applicable, the
ductility is ensured.
Created on Tuesday, December 04, 2007
Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection (GB)

Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection

SX013a-EN-GB

Quality Record

RESOURCE TITLE Example: Fin plate beam-to-column-flange connection

Reference SX013a-EN-GB

LOCALISED RESOURCE DOCUMENT

Name Company Date

Created by Mary Brettle SCI Dec 2006

Technical content checked by Abdul Malik SCI Jan 2007

Editorial content checked by D C Iles SCI 19/2/07

This material is copyright - all rights reserved. Use of this document is subject to the terms and conditions of the Access Steel Licence Agreement
Created on Tuesday, December 04, 2007
NCCI: Initial sizing of fin plate connections.

NCCI: Initial sizing of fin plate connections.

SN016a-EN-EU

NCCI: Initial sizing of fin plate connections.

This NCCI provides rules for the initial sizing of the components of fin plate connections
for a "Simple joint". The rules apply to a bolted connection using non-preloaded bolts (i.e.
a Category A: Bearing type bolted connection).

Contents
1. Typical connections 2

2. Choice of fin plate connection 2

3. Choice of bolt type 3

4. Number of bolts in a fin plate connection 3

5. Fin plate dimensions 5

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6. Weld size 6

7. Ductility 7

8. Rotation capacity 7

9. Limits of application 7

10. Background 7
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

Page 1
NCCI: Initial sizing of fin plate connections.

NCCI: Initial sizing of fin plate connections.

SN016a-EN-EU

1. Typical connections
Fin plates are used for beam/column and beam/beam connections. Typical connections using
a single vertical line of bolts are shown in Figure 1.1.
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Figure 1.1 Typical Beam/Column & Beam/Beam connections with fin plates

2. Choice of fin plate connection

There are two basic types of fin plate connections (see figure 2.1):

1. Fin plate with one vertical line of bolts.

2. Fin plate with two vertical lines of bolts.

It is recommended that:

If VEd ≤ 0,5 VC, Rd adopt fin plate with one vertical line of bolts

If 0,75 VC,Rd ≥ VEd > 0,5 VC,Rd adopt a fin plate with two vertical lines of bolts
If VEd > 0,75 VC, Rd use an end plate connection.
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

In the above expressions:

VEd is the design shear force and

VC,Rd is the design shear resistance of the supported beam

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Figure 2.1 Fin plate connections with one and two vertical lines of bolts
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3. Choice of bolt type

It is recommended to use one grade and one diameter of bolt in a limited range of lengths.

This document and the NCCIs for shear and tying resistance of fin plate connections (SN017
and SN018) relate to Category A bearing type connections (as defined in EN1993-1-8 §3.4.1),
using non-preloaded bolts. For this type of connection, the bolt class which is usually used
depends on the country of construction: class 10.9 bolts are used in most of Europe, but class
8.8 bolts are used in France and UK.

Usually, bolts should be fully threaded. The commonly used size is:
Bolt diameter = 20 mm
Length = 60 mm.

However, the verification procedures for fin plate connections shown in SN017 and SN018
are valid for bolts from class 4.6 to class 10.9 with different diameter and length.

4. Number of bolts in a fin plate connection

The minimum number of bolts (M20, class 8.8 or 10.9) to be adopted is given by:

VEd
n=
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

Where:
n is the total number of bolts (i.e n1 × n2 )
n1 is number of horizontal rows of bolts

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n2 is number of vertical lines of bolts

(For one vertical line of bolts, n should be rounded up to the nearest whole number,
For two vertical lines of bolts, n should be rounded up to the nearest multiple of 2)
VEd is the design shear force in kN

The value of K depends on the type of fin plate connection (i.e. one or two vertical lines of
bolts). Tables 4.1 and 4.2 below give the values of K for the two cases.

Table 4.1 Values of K for one vertical line of bolts (i.e. n2 = 1)

Steel grade Depth of K for thickness t

(lower of fin plate supported beam (lower of fin plate and supported beam web)
and hb1
t = 10 mm t = 8 mm
supported beam) mm
hb1 ≤ 400 30 25

S235 400 < h b1 ≤ 600 50 40

h b1 > 600 55 45

h b1 ≤ 400
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40 35

S275 400 < h b1 ≤ 600 60 50

hb1 > 600 65 55

hb1 ≤ 400 45 40

S355 400 < h b1 ≤ 600 70 60

h b1 > 600 80 65

Table 4.2 Values of K for two vertical lines of bolts (i.e. n2 = 2)

Steel grade Depth of K for thickness t

(lower of fin plate supported beam (lower of fin plate and supported beam web)
and hb1
t = 10 mm t = 8 mm
supported beam) mm

h b1 ≤ 400 20 20

S235 400 < hb1 ≤ 600 30 30

h b1 > 600 35 35

hb1 ≤ 400 25 25

S275 400 < h b1 ≤ 600 35 35

hb1 > 600 40 40

hb1 ≤ 400
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

30 30

S355 400 < hb1 ≤ 600 40 40

hb1 > 600 45 45

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bp bp
gh gh
gv gv

e1,b e1,b
e1 e1
p1 a p1 a
hp hp
p1 p1
e1 e1

e 2 e2,b he e 2 p 2 e2,b he

z z
n2= 1 n2 = 2

Figure 4.2 Fin plate parameters

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5. Fin plate dimensions

a) Depending on the bolt diameter, choose end and edge distances not less than 2d:

i.e. e1 , e2 , e1,b and e2,b ≥ 2d

b) Height of fin plate

Minimum height of fin plate hp = 0,6hb1

Maximum height of fin plate = d b1

Note: Commonly the height of fin plate is rounded up to the nearest 10mm.

c) Vertical bolt spacing: depends on the number of bolts. For M20 bolts p1 should not be less
than 70 mm.

d) For M20 bolts, the following dimensions are recommended, depending on the depth of the
supported beam.

Table 5.1 Thickness and width of fin plates for one vertical line of bolts (n2 = 1)
Depth of Fin plate Fin plate width Horizontal gap Beam edge Fin plate edge
supported beam thickness bp (mm) gh (mm) distance distance
hb1 (mm) tp (mm) e2,b (mm) e2 (mm)
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

h b1 ≤ 600 10 100 10 40 50

h b1 > 600 10 120 20 40 60

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Table 5.2 Thickness and width of fin plates for two vertical lines of bolts (n2 = 2)
Depth of Fin plate Fin plate Horizontal Beam edge Transverse Fin plate
supported beam thickness width gap distance bolt pitch edge
hb1 (mm) tp (mm) bp (mm) gh (mm) e2,b (mm) p2 (mm) distance
e2 (mm)
h b1 ≤ 600 10 160 10 40 60 50

h b1 > 600 10 180 20 40 60 60

where:

d is the bolt diameter

db1 is the distance between fillets of the supported beam
hb1 is the depth of the supported beam
hp is the height of the fin plate
e1,b is the end distance to the edge of the beam or to the edge of the notch
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6. Weld size
Adopt the following fillet weld sizes, depending on the fin plate steel grade and thickness.

Table 6.1 Size of fillet weld for different fin plate steel grades and thicknesses.

Fin plate Steel grade Dimensions, for fin plate thickness tp

8 mm 10 mm
Throat a Leg length s Throat a Leg length s
(mm) (mm) (mm) (mm)
S235 4 6 5 7
S275 4 6 5 7
S355 5 7 5,5 8

tp

a 2
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

t f,c , t w,c , t w,b2

Figure 6.2 Fillet weld, throat and leg lengths

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7. Ductility
The details given in this NCCI will provide sufficient ductility to meet the requirements of
Section 16 of SN017.

8. Rotation capacity
The details given in this NCCI will provide sufficient rotation capacity for the connection to
be treated as a “simple joint”.

9. Limits of application
This NCCI applies to one or two vertical lines of bolts (i.e. n2=1 or n2=2) using non-preloaded
bolts for Category A: Bearing type bolted connection in accordance with EN1993-1-8 §3.4.1.
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10. Background
The rules in this NCCI are based on:

(1) European recommendations for the design of simple joints in steel structures -
Document prepared under the supervision of ECCS TC10 by: J.P. Jaspart, S. Renkin
and M.L. Guillaume - First draft, September 2003.

(2) Joints in Steel Construction – Simple Connections (P212). The Steel Construction
Institute and The British Constructional Association Ltd., 2002.
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

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Quality Record

RESOURCE TITLE NCCI: Initial sizing of fin plate connections.

Reference(s)

ORIGINAL DOCUMENT

Name Company Date

Created by Edurne Nunez SCI March 2005

Technical content checked by Abdul Malik SCI Aug 2005

Editorial content checked by D C Iles SCI 16/9/05

Technical content endorsed by the

following STEEL Partners:

1. UK G W Owens SCI 16/9/05

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2. France A Bureau CTICM 16/9/05

3. Germany A Olsson SBI 15/9/05

4. Sweden C Müller RWTH 14/9/05

5. Spain J Chica Labein 16/9/05

Resource approved by Technical G W Owens SCI 26/4/06

Coordinator

TRANSLATED DOCUMENT

This Translation made and checked by

Translated resource approved by:

Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

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NCCI: Shear resistance of a fin plate connection

This NCCI provides rules for the determination of shear resistance of a "Simple Joint"
using a fin plate connection for Beam/Column and Beam/Beam connections. The rules
apply to a bolted connection loaded in shear and using non-preloaded bolts (i.e. Category
A: Bearing type bolted connection). This NCCI covers the rules for the fin plate, the
supported beam and the supporting column or beam. The rules may be used to evaluate the
overall shear resistance of the connection, for all the possible modes of failure, based on
the rules in EN 1993-1-8 for determining the resistances of individual components of the
connection.

Contents
1. Design model 2

2. Parameters 3

3. Bolts in shear 5
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4. Fin plate in bearing 5

5. Fin plate in shear (gross section) 6

6. Fin plate in shear (net section) 6

7. Fin plate in shear (block shear) 7

8. Fin plate in bending 7

9. Fin plate in buckling (LTB) 7

10. Beam web in bearing 8

11. Beam web in shear (gross section) 9

12. Beam web in shear (net section) 9

13. Beam web in shear (block shear) 9

14. Supporting column web or supporting beam web (punching shear) 10

15. Weld design 10

16. Ductility requirements 11

Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

17. Rotation requirement 11

18. Limits of application 12

19. Background 12

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1. Design model
Fin plate connections may be considered as “simple joints” according to EN1993-1-1 §5.1.2
(1) and (2) and EN1993-1-8 §5.1.1 (1), (2) and (3). For further information about simple
connections see SN020. Thus the effects of joint behaviour need not be taken into account in
the analysis of the frame.

However, for the design of the connection itself, the effective line of transfer of vertical shear,
i.e. where zero moment is assumed to exist, depends on the flexibility of the supporting
element. In practice, most supports are neither fully rigid nor entirely flexible. Therefore it is
safe to design both the bolts and the welds for shear force and moment. Hence, two design
models are used, one (to design the bolt group) where the line of transfer is at the face of the
supporting element and one (to design the weld) where the line of transfer is at the centreline
of the bolt group. The two models are shown in Figure 1.1.

1 3 1 3 1
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2 2 2

For weld For bolt group For weld For bolt group For weld For bolt group
Assumed lines of shear Assumed lines of shear Assumed lines of shear
transfer transfer transfer
Key. 1. Fin plate
2. Supported beam
3. Supporting column
4. Supporting beam

Figure 1.1 Fin plate connection subject to vertical shear force

Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

The shear resistance and mode of failure of the connection is the value and mode that has the
lowest resistance of all the possible modes of failure. For rules for each of the modes of
failure, refer to Table 1.1 given below.

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Table 1.1 Shear resistance of fin plate connection

Mode of failure Section number

Bolts in shear VRd,1 3
Fin plate in bearing VRd,2 4
Fin plate in shear (gross section) VRd,3 5
Fin plate in shear (net section) VRd,4 6
Fin plate in shear (block shear) VRd,5 7
Fin plate in bending VRd,6 8
Fin plate in buckling (LTB) VRd,7 9
Beam web in bearing VRd,8 10
Beam web in shear (gross section) VRd,9 11
Beam web in shear (net section) VRd,10 12
Beam web in shear (block shear) VRd,11 13
Supporting column web or VRd,12 14
supporting beam web
(punching shear)
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2. Parameters
bp bp
gh gh
gv gv

e1,b e1,b
e1 e1
p1 a p1 a
hp hp
p1 p1
e1 e1

e 2 e2,b he e 2 p 2 e2,b he

z z
n 2= 1 n2 = 2
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

Figure 2.1 Parameters in a fin plate connection.

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a Throat thickness of fillet weld

Av,net Net shear area of the fin plate
d0 Diameter of hole
e1 Longitudinal end distance (fin plate)
e1,b Longitudinal end distance (to the edge of the beam or to the edge of a notch)
e2 Transverse end distance (fin plate)
e2,b Transverse end distance (beam web)
fub Ultimate tensile strength of the bolts
fu,b1 Ultimate tensile strength of the supported beam
fu,b2 Ultimate tensile strength of the supporting beam
fu,c Ultimate tensile strength of the supporting column
fu,p Ultimate tensile strength of the fin plate
fy,b1 Yield strength of the supported beam
fy,b2 Yield strength of the supporting beam
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fy,c Yield strength of the supporting column

fy,p Yield strength of the fin plate
gh Horizontal gap between the supporting element and supported beam
gv Vertical gap between the top of beam flange and top of fin plate
hb Depth of the supported beam
he Distance between the bottom of the fin plate and the bottom of the supported beam.
hp Height of the fin plate
I Inertia of the bolt group
n Total number of bolts (i.e. n1 × n2)
n1 Number of horizontal rows of bolts
n2 Number of vertical lines of bolts
p1 Longitudinal bolt pitch
p2 Transverse bolt pitch
r Fillet radius of the supported beam
tp Thickness of the fin plate
tw,b1 Thickness of supported beam web
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

tw,b2 Thickness of supporting beam web

tw,c Thickness of column web
z Transverse distance (face of supporting element to centre of bolt group)

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3. Bolts in shear
n Fv,Rd
VRd,1 =
(1 + α n )2 + (β n )2
The shear resistance of a single bolt, Fv,Rd is given in Table 3.4 of EN1993-1-8 as:

α v f ub A
Fv,Rd =
γ M2

For a single vertical line of bolts (n2 = 1, ∴ n = n1)

α =0

6z
β =
n (n + 1) p1
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For two vertical lines of bolts (n2 = 2, ∴ n = 2n1)

z p2
α =
2I

β =
z p1
(n1 − 1)
2I

where:

I =
n1 2 1
2
(
p2 + n1 n12 − 1 p12
6
)

4. Fin plate in bearing

n
VRd,2 =
2 2
⎛ 1+α n ⎞ ⎛ β n ⎞
⎜ ⎟ +⎜ ⎟
⎜F ⎟ ⎜F ⎟
⎝ b, Rd, ver ⎠ ⎝ b, Rd, hor ⎠

Where α, β and n are as defined in section 3 above.

Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

The bearing resistance of a single bolt, Fb,Rd is given in Table 3.4 of EN1993-1-8 as:

k1α b f u d t
Fb, Rd =
γ M2

Therefore vertical bearing resistance of a single bolt on the fin plate, Fb,Rd,ver is:

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k1α b f u, p d t p
Fb, Rd, ver =
γ M2

where:
⎛ e p1 1 f ub ⎞
αb = min⎜ 1 ; − ; ; 1,0 ⎟
⎜ 3d o 3d 4 f u, p ⎟
⎝ o ⎠
⎛ e p2 ⎞
k1 = min⎜⎜ 2,8 2 − 1,7; 1,4 − 1,7; 2,5 ⎟⎟
⎝ do do ⎠
Similarly horizontal bearing resistance of a single bolt on the fin plate, Fb,Rd,hor is:

k1α b f u, p d t p
Fb, Rd, hor =
γ M2

where:
⎛ e p2 1 f ub ⎞
min⎜ 2 ; ; 1,0 ⎟
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αb = − ;
⎜ 3d o 3d o 4 f u,p ⎟
⎝ ⎠
⎛ e p1 ⎞
k1 = min⎜⎜ 2,8 1 − 1,7; 1,4 − 1,7; 2,5 ⎟⎟
⎝ do do ⎠

5. Fin plate in shear (gross section)

hp t p f y, p
V Rd,3 =
1,27 3 γ M0

Note: The coefficient 1,27 takes into account the reduction of the shear resistance, due to the
presence of bending moment, see reference (1) (section 6.3.3). For further explanation, see:

Development of a European process for the design of simple structural joint in steel frames
(in French), by RENKIN Sandra, Diploma work, University of Liege, June 2003.

6. Fin plate in shear (net section)

f u,p
VRd,4 = Av,net
3 γ M2
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

where:
Av,net = t p (hp − n1d 0 )

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7. Fin plate in shear (block shear)

VRd,5 = Veff,2,Rd

From § 3.10.2 (3) of EN1993-1-8

0,5 f u,p Ant 1 Anv

Veff,2,Rd = + f y,p
γ M2 3 γ M0

where:
Ant is the net area subjected to tension
⎛ d ⎞
for a single vertical line of bolts (i.e. n2 = 1) Ant = t p ⎜ e2 − 0 ⎟
⎝ 2 ⎠

⎛ d ⎞
for two vertical lines of bolts (i.e. n2 = 2) Ant = t p ⎜ p2 + e2 − 3 0 ⎟
⎝ 2 ⎠
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Anv is the net area subjected to shear

= tp (hp – e1 – (n1 – 0,5) d0)

8. Fin plate in bending

If hp ≥ 2,73 z then:

VRd,6 =∞

else:

Wel f y,p
VRd,6 =
z γ M0

Where:
t p hp2
Wel =
6

9. Fin plate in buckling (LTB)

Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

Wel σ
VRd,7 =
z γ M0

where:

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t p hp2
Wel =
6
2
⎛ tp ⎞
σ = 235 × 81⎜⎜ ⎟⎟ (N/mm2 )
⎝z⎠
Note: Lateral torsional buckling (LTB) is due to compression stresses which may develop in
the lower part of the fin plate under the action of the bending moment.

10. Beam web in bearing

n
VRd,8 =
2 2
⎛ 1+α n ⎞ ⎛ β n ⎞
⎜ ⎟ +⎜ ⎟
⎜F ⎟ ⎜F ⎟
⎝ b,Rd,ver ⎠ ⎝ b,Rd,hor ⎠

Where α, β and n are as defined in section 3 above.

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The bearing resistance of a single bolt, Fb,Rd is given in Table 3.4 of EN1993-1-8 as:

k1α b f u d t
Fb,Rd =
γ M2
Therefore vertical bearing resistance of a single bolt on the supported beam web, Fb,Rd,ver is:

k1α b f u, b1 d t w, b1
Fb, Rd, ver =
γ M2

where:

⎛ p 1 f ub ⎞
αb = min⎜ 1 − ; ; 1,0 ⎟
⎜ 3d ⎟
⎝ o 4 f u,b1 ⎠

⎛ e 1.4 p 2 ⎞
k1 = min⎜⎜ 2,8 2,b − 1,7; − 1,7; 2,5 ⎟⎟
⎝ do do ⎠

Similarly horizontal bearing resistance of a single bolt on the supported beam web, Fb,Rd,hor is:

k1 α b f u, b1 d t w, b1
Fb, Rd, hor =
γ M2
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

where:
⎛e p2 1 f ub ⎞
αb = min⎜ 2 ,b ; − ; ; 1,0 ⎟
⎜ 3d 3d 4 f u, b1 ⎟
⎝ o o ⎠

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⎛ p ⎞
k1 = min ⎜⎜1,4 1 − 1,7; 2,5 ⎟⎟
⎝ do ⎠

11. Beam web in shear (gross section)

From § 6.2.6 (2) of EN1993-1-1
f y,b1
VRd,9 = Vpl,Rd = Av,b
3 γ M0

12. Beam web in shear (net section)

f u, b1
VRd,10 = Av,b, net
3 γ M2

where:
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Av, b, net = Av, b − n1d 0t w, b1

13. Beam web in shear (block shear)

VRd,11 = Veff,2, Rd

From § 3.10.2 (3) of EN1993-1-8

0,5 f u, b1 Ant 1 A
Veff,2,Rd = + f y,b1 nv
γ M2 3 γ M0

where:
Ant is the net area subjected to tension
⎛ d ⎞
for a single vertical line of bolts (i.e. n2 = 1) Ant = t w, b1⎜ e2, b − 0 ⎟
⎝ 2 ⎠

⎛ d ⎞
for two vertical lines of bolts (i.e. n2 = 2) Ant = t w, b2 ⎜ p2 + e2, b − 3 0 ⎟
⎝ 2⎠
Anv is the net area subjected to shear
= t w, b1 (e1, b + (n1 − 1) p1 − (n1 − 0,5)d 0 )
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

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14. Supporting column web or

supporting beam web (punching shear)
If fin plate is connected to supporting column web or supporting beam web

t w hp 2 f u
VRd,12 =
6z

where:
tw is thickness of supporting column web or beam web, tw,c or tw,b2
fu is ultimate tensile strength of supporting column or supporting beam, fu,c or fu,b2

15. Weld design

Provide full strength double fillet welds. The welds are considered as end fillet welds. The
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size of the weld throat “a” complies with the following requirement:

a ≥ 0,46t p for S235 fin plate

a ≥ 0,48t p for S275 fin plate

tp

a 2

t f,c , t w,c , t w,b2

Key: 1. Fin plate

2. Supporting element
a: weld throat
s: leg length
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

Figure 15.1 Fillet weld, throat and leg length

a ≥ 0,55t p for S355 fin plate

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16. Ductility requirements

To ensure adequate ductility, the following requirements must be satisfied

• VRd < min (VRd,1 ; VRd,7 ) and

• If VRd = VRd,3 ; VRd,4 ; VRd,5 ; VRd,6 ; VRd,9 ; VRd,10 or VRd,11 then

VRd,1 > min (VRd,2 ; VRd,8 )

17. Rotation requirement

To ensure adequate rotation capacity, requirements (1) and (2) or requirement (3) given below
must be satisfied.

(1) hp ≤ d b1
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Where

d b1 = hb − 2t f, b1 − 2r

(2) φavailable > φrequired

Where:

The “required rotation”, φrequired, varies according to the structural system and loading. For
example, for a simply supported beam (length L and second moment of area I) subject to a
uniformly distributed load (γGg+γQq) at ULS:

(γ G g + γ Q q ) L 3
φrequired =
24 EI

2
⎛ hp ⎞
• If z > (z − g h )2
+ ⎜⎜ + he ⎟⎟ , then:
⎝ 2 ⎠

φ available = ∞

• Else:
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

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⎛ ⎞
⎜ ⎟ ⎛ ⎞
⎜ ⎟ ⎜ ⎟
z z − g
φavailable = arcsin ⎜ ⎟ − arctan⎜ h ⎟
⎜ 2 ⎟ ⎜ hp ⎟
⎛ hp ⎞ ⎜ + he ⎟
⎜
⎜
(z − g h )
2
+ ⎜⎜ + he ⎟⎟ ⎟
⎟ ⎝ 2 ⎠
⎝ ⎝ 2 ⎠ ⎠

(3) Provide details as given in SN016 for the initial design of fin plate connections or
provide standard details as given in reference (2).

18. Limits of application

This NCCI applies to one or two vertical lines of bolts (i.e. n2=1 or n2=2) using non-preloaded
bolts for Category A: Bearing type bolted connection in accordance with EN1993-1-8 §3.4.1.

19. Background
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The rules in this NCCI are based on:

(1) European recommendations for the design of simple joints in steel structures -
Document prepared under the supervision of ECCS TC10 by: J.P. Jaspart, S. Renkin
and M.L. Guillaume - First draft, September 2003.

(2) Joints in Steel Construction – Simple Connections (P212). The Steel Construction
Institute and The British Constructional Association Ltd., 2002.
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

Page 12
NCCI: Shear resistance of a fin plate connection

NCCI: Shear resistance of a fin plate connection

SN017a-EN-EU

Quality Record

RESOURCE TITLE NCCI: Shear resistance of a fin plate connection

Reference(s)

ORIGINAL DOCUMENT

Name Company Date

Created by Abdul Malik SCI Jan 2005

Technical content checked by Boris Jurasinovic, Edurne SCI August

Nunez 2005

Editorial content checked by D C Iles SCI 16/9/05

Technical content endorsed by the

following STEEL Partners:

1. UK G W Owens SCI 16/9/05

This material is copyright - all rights reserved. Use of this document is subject to the terms and conditions of the Access Steel Licence Agreement

2. France A Bureau CTICM 16/9/05

3. Sweden A Olsson SBI 15/9/05

4. Germany C Müller RWTH 14/9/05

5. Spain J Chica Labein 16/9/05

Resource approved by Technical G W Owens SCI 22/5/05

Coordinator

TRANSLATED DOCUMENT

This Translation made and checked by:

Translated resource approved by:

Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

Page 13
NCCI: Tying resistance of a fin plate connection

NCCI: Tying resistance of a fin plate connection

SN018a-EN-EU

NCCI: Tying resistance of a fin plate connection

This NCCI provides rules for the determination of tying resistance of a “Simple Joint"
using a fin plate connection for Beam/Column and Beam/Beam connections. The rules
apply to a bolted connection, using non-preloaded bolts (i.e. Category A: Bearing type
bolted connection). This NCCI covers the rules for the fin plate, the supported beam and
the supporting column web. The rules may be used to evaluate the overall tying resistance
of the connection, for all the possible modes of failure, based on the rules in EN 1993-1-8
for determining the resistances of individual components of the connection. The design
procedure given in this NCCI applies to an accidental limit state.

Contents
1. Design model 2

2. Parameters 3
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3. Bolts in shear 4

4. Fin plate in bearing 4

5. Fin plate in tension (block tearing) 5

6. Fin plate in tension (net section) 5

7. Beam web in bearing 6

8. Beam web in tension (block tearing) 6

9. Beam web in tension (net section) 7

10. Supporting column web in bending 7

11. Weld design 8

12. Limits of application 8

13. Background 8
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

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NCCI: Tying resistance of a fin plate connection

NCCI: Tying resistance of a fin plate connection

SN018a-EN-EU

1. Design model
The design model is shown in Figure 1.1. The design procedure refers to an accidental limit
state.

1 3 1 3 1

2 2 2
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Key: 1. Fin plate 3. Column

2. Supported beam 4. Supporting beam

Figure 1.1 Fin plate connection subject to tying force

EN1993-1-8 does not give any guidance on tying resistance of connections. However,
because large strains and large deformations are associated with the failure modes given in
Table 1.1, it is recommended that ultimate tensile strengths (fu) can be used for calculating the
tying resistance and the partial factor for tying γM,u can be taken as 1,1.

The tying resistance and mode of failure of the connection is the value and mode that has the
lowest resistance of all the possible modes of failure. For rules for each of the modes of
failure, refer to Table 1.1 below.

Table 1.1 Tying resistance of fin plate connection

Mode of failure Section number

Bolts in shear NRd,u,1 3
Fin plate in bearing NRd,u,2 4
Fin plate in tension (block tearing) NRd,u,3 5
Fin plate in tension (net section) NRd,u,4 6
Beam web in bearing NRd,u,5 7
Beam web in tension (block tearing) NRd,u,6 8
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

Beam web in tension (net section) NRd,u,7 9

Supporting column web in bending NRd,u,8 10
Note: There is no calculation of the tying resistance of a supporting beam, because it is
assumed that such a connection would not be designed for tying. Any requirements for tying
resistance would be satisfied by providing continuity of slab reinforcement and by
transferring tying forces through adjacent secondary beams framing directly into a column.

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NCCI: Tying resistance of a fin plate connection

NCCI: Tying resistance of a fin plate connection

SN018a-EN-EU

bp bp
gh gh
gv gv

e1,b e1,b
e1 e1
p1 a p1 a
hp hp
p1 p1
e1 e1

e 2 e2,b he e 2 p 2 e2,b he

z z
n2= 1 n2 = 2
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Figure 2.1 Parameters for a fin plate connection.

2. Parameters
a Throat thickness of fillet weld
d0 Diameter of hole
e1 Longitudinal end distance (fin plate)
e1,b Longitudinal end distance (to the edge of the beam or to the edge of a notch)
e2 Trasverse end distance (fin plate)
e2,b Transverse end distance (beam web)
fub Ultimate tensile strength of the bolts
fu,b1 Ultimate tensile strength of the supported beam
fu,b2 Ultimate tensile strength of the supporting beam
fu,c Ultimate tensile strength of the supporting column
fu,p Ultimate tensile strength of the fin plate
fy,b1 Yield strength of the supported beam
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

fy,b2 Yield strength of the supporting beam

fy,c Yield strength of the supporting column
fy,p Yield strength of the fin plate
gh Horizontal gap between the supporting element and supported beam
gv Vertical gap between the top of beam flange and top of fin plate
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NCCI: Tying resistance of a fin plate connection

NCCI: Tying resistance of a fin plate connection

SN018a-EN-EU

he Distance between the bottom of the fin plate and the bottom of the supported beam.
hp Height of the fin plate
I Inertia of the bolt group
n Total number of bolts (i.e. n1 × n2)
n1 Number of horizontal rows of bolts
n2 Number of vertical lines of bolts
p1 Longitudinal bolt pitch
p2 Transverse bolt pitch
tp Thickness of the fin plate
tw,b1 Thickness of supported beam web
tw,b2 Thickness of supporting beam web
tw,c Thickness of column web
γM,u Partial factor for tying resistance equal to 1,1 (not given in EN1993-1-8)
z Transverse distance (face of supporting element to centre of bolt group)
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3. Bolts in shear
NRd,u,1 = nFv,Rd,u

From Table 3.4 of EN1993-1-8

Fv,Rd,u =αv fub A/γM,u

where:
γM,u = 1,1 for tying resistance
αv = 0,6 for class 8.8 bolts
= 0,5 for class 10.9 bolts

4. Fin plate in bearing

NRd,u,2 = nFb,Rd,u,hor

The bearing resistance of a single bolt, Fb,Rd is given in Table 3.4 of EN1993-1-8 as:

k1α b f u d t
Fb, Rd =
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

γ M, u

Therefore for tying, horizontal bearing resistance of a single bolt on the fin plate, Fb,Rd,u,hor is:

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NCCI: Tying resistance of a fin plate connection

NCCI: Tying resistance of a fin plate connection

SN018a-EN-EU

k1α b f u, p d tp
Fb, Rd, u, hor =
γ M, u

where:
⎛ e p2 1 f ub ⎞
αb = min ⎜ 2 ; − ; ; 1,0 ⎟
⎜ 3d o 3d o 4 f u, p ⎟
⎝ ⎠
⎛ e p1 ⎞
k1 = min ⎜⎜ 2 ,8 1 − 1,7; 1,4 − 1,7; 2 ,5 ⎟⎟
⎝ do do ⎠
γM,u = 1,1 for tying resistance

5. Fin plate in tension (block tearing)

NRd,u,3 = Veff,1,Rd

where:
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From § 3.10.2 (2) of EN1993-1-8

f u, p Ant 1 A
Veff,1, Rd = + f y,p nv
γ M, u 3 γ M0

where:
Ant is the net area subjected to tension
= tp (n1p1 – (n1 – 1) d0)
Anv is the net area subjected to shear
⎛ d ⎞
for single vertical line of bolts (n2 = 1) Anv = 2tp ⎜ e2 − 0 ⎟
⎝ 2⎠

⎛ d ⎞
for two vertical lines of bolts (n2 = 2) Anv = 2tp ⎜ p2 + e2 − 3 0 ⎟
⎝ 2⎠
γM,u = 1,1 for tying resistance

6. Fin plate in tension (net section)

Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

From § 6.2.3 (2) of EN1993-1-1

NRd,u,4 = 0,9 Anet,p fu,p/ γM,u

where:

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NCCI: Tying resistance of a fin plate connection

NCCI: Tying resistance of a fin plate connection

SN018a-EN-EU

Anet,p = tp (hp – d0 n1)

γM,u = 1,1 for tying resistance

7. Beam web in bearing

NRd,u,5 = n Fb,Rd,u,hor

The bearing resistance of a single bolt, Fb,Rd is given in Table 3.4 of EN1993-1-8 as:

k1α b f u d t
Fb, Rd =
γ M, u
Therefore horizontal bearing resistance of a single bolt on the beam web, Fb,Rd,u,hor is:

k1α b f u, b1d t w, b1
Fb, Rd, u, hor =
γ M, u

where:
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⎛e p2 1 f ub ⎞
αb = min ⎜ 2 ,b ; − ; ; 1,0 ⎟
⎜ 3d 3d 4 f u, b1 ⎟
⎝ o o ⎠
⎛ p ⎞
k1 = min ⎜⎜1,4 1 − 1,7; 2,5 ⎟⎟
⎝ do ⎠
γM,u = 1,1 for tying resistance

8. Beam web in tension (block tearing)

NRd,u,6 = Veff,1,Rd

where:

From § 3.10.2 (2) of EN1993-1-8

f u, b1 Ant 1 A
Veff,1, Rd = + f y,b1 nv
γ M, u 3 γ M0

where:
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

Ant is the net area subjected to tension

= tw,b1 (n1p1 – (n1 –1)d0)
Anv is the net area subjected to shear

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NCCI: Tying resistance of a fin plate connection

NCCI: Tying resistance of a fin plate connection

SN018a-EN-EU

⎛ d ⎞
for single vertical line of bolts (i.e. n2 = 1) Anv = 2t w, b1⎜ e2, b − 0 ⎟
⎝ 2 ⎠

⎛ d ⎞
for two vertical lines of bolts (i.e. n2 = 2) Anv = 2t w, b1⎜ p2 + e2, b − 3 0 ⎟
⎝ 2 ⎠
γM,u = 1,1 for tying resistance

9. Beam web in tension (net section)

From § 6.2.3 (2) of EN1993-1-1

NRd,u,7 = 0,9 Anet,b1 fu,b1/ γM,u

where:
Anet,b1 = tw,b1 (hw,b1 – d0 n1)
hw,b1 = hp (conservatively)
γM,u
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= 1,1 for tying resistance

10. Supporting column web in bending

Tying resistance of column web NRd,u,8

N Rd, u,8 =
8 M pl , Rd ,u
γ M, u (1 − β1 )
(η + 1,5(1 − β ) )
1 1
0.5
See ref 2 check 14 p. 171

where:
1
M pl, Rd, u = 2
f u, c t w, c
4

fu,c is the ultimate tensile strength of the column

tw,c is the web thickness of the column
hp
η1 =
dc
tp + 2s
β1 =
dc
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

dc is the depth of straight portion of the column web

s is the leg length of fillet weld ( = 2×a)
γM,u = 1,1 for tying resistance

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NCCI: Tying resistance of a fin plate connection

NCCI: Tying resistance of a fin plate connection

SN018a-EN-EU

11. Weld design

The weld size specified for shear (SN017) will be adequate for tying resistance.

12. Limits of application

This NCCI applies to one or two vertical lines of bolts (i.e. n2=1 or n2=2) using non-preloaded
bolts for Category A: Bearing type bolted connection in accordance with EN1993-1-8 §3.4.1.

13. Background
The rules in this NCCI are based on :

(1) European recommendations for the design of simple joints in steel structures -
Document prepared under the supervision of ECCS TC10 by: J.P. Jaspart, S. Renkin
and M.L. Guillaume - First draft, September 2003.
This material is copyright - all rights reserved. Use of this document is subject to the terms and conditions of the Access Steel Licence Agreement

(2) Joints in Steel Construction – Simple Connections (P212). The Steel Construction
Institute and The British Constructional Association Ltd., 2002.
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

Page 8
NCCI: Tying resistance of a fin plate connection

NCCI: Tying resistance of a fin plate connection

SN018a-EN-EU

Quality Record

RESOURCE TITLE NCCI: Tying resistance of a fin plate connection

Reference(s)

ORIGINAL DOCUMENT

Name Company Date

Created by Boris Jurasinovic, Edurne SCI March 2005

Nunez

Technical content checked by Abdul Malik SCI July 2005

Editorial content checked by D C Iles SCI 16/9/05

Technical content endorsed by the

following STEEL Partners:

1. UK G W Owens SCI 16/9/05

This material is copyright - all rights reserved. Use of this document is subject to the terms and conditions of the Access Steel Licence Agreement

2. France A Bureau CTICM 16/9/05

3. Sweden A Olsson SBI 15/9/05

4. Germany C Müller RWTH 14/9/05

5. Spain J Chica Labein 16/9/05

Resource approved by Technical G W Owens SCI 09/5/06

Coordinator

TRANSLATED DOCUMENT

This Translation made and checked by:

Translated resource approved by:

Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

Page 9
NCCI: "Simple Construction" - concept and typical frame arrangements

NCCI: "Simple Construction” - concept and typical frame arrangements

SN020a-EN-EU

NCCI: "Simple Construction” - concept and typical frame

arrangements
Introduces the concept of 'simple construction' for multi-storey buildings. Lateral stability
is provided either by stiff cores or by braced bays; global analysis is elastic and joints are
nominally pinned.

Contents
1. Introduction 2

2. Design: Beams 2

3. Design: Columns 2

4. Design: Connections 2

5. Design of stiff cores or braced bays 3

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6. Typical frame arrangements 3

7. Basis in EC3 6
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

Page 1
NCCI: "Simple Construction" - concept and typical frame arrangements

NCCI: "Simple Construction” - concept and typical frame arrangements

SN020a-EN-EU

1. Introduction
1.1 General
This design method is applied to frames where either bracing or stiff cores provide strength
and stiffness to resist lateral forces and ensure lateral stability. The method is simple to use in
design; and leads to economical structures, see SS047. Its use in the UK and elsewhere has
made a substantial contribution to the market dominance of steel frames in low rise
construction.

The sway stiffness of the frame is considered in SN004, SN028 and SN047.

1.2 Global Analysis

The method uses elastic analysis and assumes pinned connections at a nominal eccentricity
from the column face that is defined in SN005. The introduction of pins at each connection
makes the structure statically determinate, simplifying the task of size selection for both
columns and beams.
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2. Design: Beams
Beams are designed assuming they are simply supported because of the use of ‘simple’ joints
(‘nominally pinned’ joints) as EN 1993-1-8 § 5.1.1(2) and Table 5.1 and § 5.2.2.2.

3. Design: Columns
Columns are designed assuming they must resist both the axial compression and, where
appropriate, a nominal moment from the connection to the beams. See SN002, SN012 and
SX010.

In accordance with EN 1991-1-1 § 6.2.2(1), the design of column in buildings should assume
that floors are uniformly loaded, so pattern bending need not be considered.

4. Design: Connections
As discussed below, the classification of the joints as ‘nominally pinned’ may be justified on
the basis of experience of previous satisfactory performance in similar cases. Therefore, it is
advisable to use traditional joints and normal geometry. SN013, SN014, SN015 and SX012
provide this information for ‘simple’ end plank connections and SN016, SN017, SN018 and
SX013 for fin plate connections.
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

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NCCI: "Simple Construction" - concept and typical frame arrangements

NCCI: "Simple Construction” - concept and typical frame arrangements

SN020a-EN-EU

5. Design of stiff cores or braced bays

Stiff cores are commonly formed by reinforced concrete walls around the staircases and lift
shaft areas. A typical plan and elevation is shown in Figure 6.1.

Stiff panels are most commonly formed by steel cross-bracing. Cross-bracing arrangements
need to be carefully arranged to allow for doorways. Typical plans and elevations are shown
in Figure 6.2, Figure 6.3 and Figure 6.4.

6. Typical frame arrangements

A
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A-A

1. Concrete core walls

2. Doorways
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

Figure 6.1 Concrete core surrounding stairs, lifts, service shafts etc.

Page 3
NCCI: "Simple Construction" - concept and typical frame arrangements

NCCI: "Simple Construction” - concept and typical frame arrangements

SN020a-EN-EU

Figure 6.2 Plan showing a stiff core of cross braced panels

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Figure 6.3 Frame restrained by stiff panels not grouped as a core

Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

Page 4
NCCI: "Simple Construction" - concept and typical frame arrangements

NCCI: "Simple Construction” - concept and typical frame arrangements

SN020a-EN-EU
This material is copyright - all rights reserved. Use of this document is subject to the terms and conditions of the Access Steel Licence Agreement
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

Figure 6.4 Elevation showing typical bracings

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NCCI: "Simple Construction" - concept and typical frame arrangements

NCCI: "Simple Construction” - concept and typical frame arrangements

SN020a-EN-EU

7. Basis in EC3
This tried-and-tested approach to braced frame design complies fully with the Eurocodes.
Key points are addressed below:

1. ‘Nominally pinned’ connections

EN 1993-1-8 § 5.2.2.1 (2) states that ‘A joint may be classified, on the basis of experimental
evidence, experience of previous satisfactory performance in similar cases or by
calculation based on test evidence’. There is substantial experience of previous satisfactory
experience of these connections. They had been used for many decades in most low-rise steel
frames in the UK and elsewhere.

2. Treatment as braced frame

EN 1993-1-1 gives no definition of a braced frame ENV 1993-1-1 § 5.2.5.3 previously stated
that ‘A frame may be classified as braced if its sway resistance is supplied by a bracing
system with a response to in-plane horizontal loads which is sufficiently stiff for it to be
acceptably accurate to assume that all horizontal loads are resisted by the bracing system’.
This is the case in frames where the beam to column joints are ‘simple’ joints.]
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3. Resistance to horizontal forces

The stiff cores/braced bays should be designed to resist the entire horizontal loading from
external actions and frame imperfections using EN 1993-1-1 § 5.3.2. SN028 demonstrates
that imperfections may be considered by using horizontal force coefficients of 0.5% of
vertical loads.

4. Second order effects

As discussed in SN001, stiff cores and panels sized for resistance to ultimate limit state forces
may lead to frames with α cr < 10 in which case they must be designed considering the effects
of deformed geometry (second order effects). SN028 demonstrates that using horizontal force
coefficients of 2,5% of vertical loads and limiting the stresses in the bracing will always
ensure α cr >10, giving a simple design process by avoiding second-order analysis.
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

Page 6
NCCI: "Simple Construction" - concept and typical frame arrangements

NCCI: "Simple Construction” - concept and typical frame arrangements

SN020a-EN-EU

Quality Record
RESOURCE TITLE NCCI: "Simple Construction” - concept and typical frame
arrangements

Reference(s)

ORIGINAL DOCUMENT

Name Company Date

Created by C M King SCI Oct 2005

Technical content checked by A S Malik SCI Oct 2005

Editorial content checked by

Technical content endorsed by the

following STEEL Partners:

1. UK G W Owens SCI 23/5/06

2. France A Bureau CTICM 23/5/06

3. Sweden B Uppfeldt SBI 23/5/06

This material is copyright - all rights reserved. Use of this document is subject to the terms and conditions of the Access Steel Licence Agreement

4. Germany C Müller RWTH 23/5/06

5. Spain J Chica Labein 23/5/06

Resource approved by Technical G W Owens SCI 31/8/06

Coordinator

TRANSLATED DOCUMENT

This Translation made and checked by:

Translated resource approved by:

Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

Page 7
NCCI: Initial sizing of simple end plate connections.

NCCI: Initial sizing of simple end plate connections.

SN013a-EN-EU

NCCI: Initial sizing of simple end plate connections.

This NCCI provides rules for the initial sizing of the components of end plate connections
for a "Simple Joint". Both partial depth and full depth end plates are covered by this
NCCI. The rules apply to a bolted connection using non-preloaded bolts (i.e. Category A:
Bearing type bolted connection).

Contents
1. Typical connections 2

2. Choice of end plate connection 2

3. Choice of bolt type 3

4. Number of bolts in an end plate connection 3

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5. End plate dimensions 4

6. Weld size 5

7. Other design issues 6

8. Limits of application 6

9. Background 6
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

Page 1
NCCI: Initial sizing of simple end plate connections.

NCCI: Initial sizing of simple end plate connections.

SN013a-EN-EU

1. Typical connections
End plates are used for beam/column and beam/beam connections. Typical connections using
partial depth and full depth end plates are shown in figure 1.1. End plate connections may be
considered as “simple joints” according to EN1993-1-1 §5.1.2 (1) and (2) and EN1993-1-8
§5.1.1 (1), (2) and (3). For further information about simple joints, see SN020.

(a) Partial depth end plates

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(b) Full depth end plates

Figure 1.1 Typical Beam to Column and Beam to Beam connections, with partial depth and
full depth end plates.

2. Choice of end plate connection

There are two basic types of end plate connections (see figure 1.1):

1. Partial depth end plate connection; where the end plate is welded only to the web of
the supported beam.

2. Full depth end plate connection; where the end plate extends the full depth of the
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

supported beam and is welded to the supported beam web and flange/flanges.

It is recommended that:

If VEd ≤ 0,75 VC,Rd either a partial depth or full depth end plate may be adopted

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NCCI: Initial sizing of simple end plate connections.

NCCI: Initial sizing of simple end plate connections.

SN013a-EN-EU

If VEd > 0,75 VC,Rd a full depth end plate should be adopted

In the above expressions:

VEd is the design shear force and

VC,Rd is the design shear resistance of the supported beam, which, for the initial
sizing, can be calculated using:

VC,Rd =
(
hb1 × t w,b1 f y,b1 3 )
γ M0

3. Choice of bolt type

It is recommended to use one grade and one diameter of bolt in a limited range of lengths.

This document and the NCCIs for shear and tying resistance of end plate connections (SN014
and SN015) relate to non-preloaded bolts in Category A: Bearing type connections (as defined
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in EN1993-1-8 §3.4.1). For this type of connection, the bolt class used usually depends on the
country of construction: class 10.9 bolts are used in most of Europe, but class 8.8 bolts are
used in UK and 6.8 bolts are used in France).

Generally bolts are fully threaded and the commonly used size is:

Bolt diameter 20 mm

Length 60 mm.

However, the verification procedures for end plate connections shown in SN014 and SN015
are valid for bolts from class 4.6 to class 10.9 with different diameter and length.

4. Number of bolts in an end plate connection

The minimum number of bolts (M20, class 8.8) to be adopted is given by:

VEd
n = (rounded up to the nearest multiple of 2)
75

Where VEd is the design shear force in kN

Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

For example if VEd = 350 kN

VEd 350
n = = = 4,7
75 75

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NCCI: Initial sizing of simple end plate connections.

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Therefore, the minimum number of bolts is 6 (i.e. 3 rows of bolts)

If VEd = 400 kN

VEd 400
n = = = 5,3
75 75

Therefore, the minimum number of bolts is 6 (i.e. 3 rows of bolts)

e2 p 3 e2

e1

hp (n 1 -1) x p1

e1
bp
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n1 =number of horizontal rows of bolts

Figure 4.1 Typical end plate details

5. End plate dimensions

It is recommended that the following are adopted:

a) For M20 bolts the following dimensions are recommended, depending on the depth of
the supported beam.

Table 5.1 Thickness and width of end plate.

Depth of End plate thickness End plate width Gauge

supported beam hb1 tp bp p3
(mm) (mm) (mm) (mm)

hb1[500 8 or 10 150 90
hb1>500 10 200 140

b) For a partial depth end plate, the height of end plate hp should be such that:
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

⎛ 1900VEd ⎞
hp ≥ max ⎜ ; 0,6hb1 ⎟ and
⎜ f y,b1 t w, b1 ⎟
⎝ ⎠

hp ≤ d b1

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NCCI: Initial sizing of simple end plate connections.

NCCI: Initial sizing of simple end plate connections.

SN013a-EN-EU

Note: Commonly the height of end plate is rounded up to the nearest 10 mm.

where:

db1 is the distance between fillets of the supported beam (mm)

fy,b1 is the yield strength of supported beam (N/mm2)

hb1 is the depth of the supported beam (mm)

hp is the height of the end plate (mm)

tw,b1 is the thickness of supported beam web (mm)

VEd is the design shear force (kN)

6. Weld size
Adopt the following fillet weld sizes, depending on the supported beam steel grade and web
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thickness.

Table 6.1 Size of fillet weld for different supported beam steel grades and web thicknesses.

Supported Dimensions, for supported beam web thickness tw,b1

beam steel
grade 9 mm 12 mm 15 mm
Throat Leg length Throat Leg length Throat Leg length
a (mm) s (mm) a (mm) s (mm) a (mm) s (mm)
S235 4 6 5,5 8 7 10
S275 4 6 5,5 8 7 10
S355 4 6 5,5 8 7 10
t w,b1

Key: a: weld throat

s s: leg length
tp
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

Figure 6.2 Fillet weld, throat and leg lengths.

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NCCI: Initial sizing of simple end plate connections.

NCCI: Initial sizing of simple end plate connections.

SN013a-EN-EU

7. Other design issues

The details given in this NCCI will provide sufficient ductility and rotation capacity to meet
the requirements of Section 12 of SN014.

8. Limits of application
This NCCI applies to two vertical lines of bolts (i.e. n2 = 2) using non-preloaded bolts for
Category A: Bearing type bolted connection in accordance with EN1993-1-8 §3.4.1.

9. Background
The rules in this NCCI are based on:

(1) European recommendations for the design of simple joints in steel structures -
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Document prepared under the supervision of ECCS TC10 by: J.P. Jaspart, S. Renkin
and M.L. Guillaume - First draft, September 2003.

(2) Joints in Steel Construction – Simple Connections (P212). The Steel Construction
Institute and The British Constructional Association Ltd., 2002.
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

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NCCI: Initial sizing of simple end plate connections.

NCCI: Initial sizing of simple end plate connections.

SN013a-EN-EU

Quality Record
RESOURCE TITLE NCCI: Initial sizing of simple end plate connections.

Reference(s)

ORIGINAL DOCUMENT

Name Company Date

Created by Edurne Núñez The Steel Construction March 2005

Institute

Technical content checked by Abdul Malik The Steel Construction July 2005
Institute

Editorial content checked by D C Iles SCI 16/9/05

Technical content endorsed by the

following STEEL Partners:

1. UK G W Owens SCI 16/9/05

2. France A Bureau CTICM 16/9/05

This material is copyright - all rights reserved. Use of this document is subject to the terms and conditions of the Access Steel Licence Agreement

3. Sweden A Olsson SBI 15/9/05

4. Germany C Müller RWTH 14/9/05

5. Spain J Chica Labein 16/9/05

Resource approved by Technical G W Owens SCI 26/4/06

Coordinator

TRANSLATED DOCUMENT

This Translation made and checked by:

Translated resource approved by:

Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

Page 7
NCCI: Shear resistance of a simple end plate connection

NCCI: Shear resistance of a simple end plate connection

SN014a-EN-EU

NCCI: Shear resistance of a simple end plate connection

This NCCI provides rules for the determination of shear resistance of a "Simple Joint"
using an end plate connection for Beam/Column and Beam/Beam connections. This NCCI
covers the rules for the end plate, the supported beam and the supporting column or beam.
The rules may be used to evaluate the overall shear resistance of the connection, for all the
possible modes of failure, based on the rules in EN 1993-1-8 for determining the
resistances of individual components of the connection. The rules apply to a bolted
connection using non-preloaded bolts (i.e. a Category A: Bearing type bolted connection).
The rules given in this NCCI can be applied to both partial depth and full depth end plate
connections.

Contents
1. Design model 2

2. Parameters 3
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3. Bolts in shear 4

4. End plate in bearing 4

5. Supporting member in bearing 5

6. End plate in shear (gross section) 6

7. End plate in shear (net section) 6

8. End plate in shear (block shear) 6

9. End plate bending (in-plane) 7

10. Beam web in shear 7

11. Weld Design 8

12. Ductility requirements 9

13. Limits of application 9

14. Background 9
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

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NCCI: Shear resistance of a simple end plate connection

NCCI: Shear resistance of a simple end plate connection

SN014a-EN-EU

1. Design model
End plate connections may be considered as “simple joints” according to EN1993-1-1 §5.1.2
(1) and (2) and EN1993-1-8 §5.1.1 (1), (2) and (3). For further information about simple
joints, see SN020. Thus the effects of joint behaviour need not be taken into account in the
analysis of the frame.

1 1 1
3 3

2 2 2
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Assumed line of shear transfer Assumed line of shear transfer Assumed line of shear transfer
(face of column) (face of web) (face of web)
Key: 1. End plate
2. Supported beam
3. Column
4. Supporting beam

Figure 1.1 End plate connection subject to vertical shear force

The shear resistance and mode of failure of the connection is the value and mode that has the
lowest resistance of all the possible modes of failure. For rules for each of the modes of
failure, refer to Table 1.1 given below.

Table 1.1 Shear resistance of end plate connection

Mode of failure Section number

Bolts in shear VRd,1 3
End plate in bearing VRd,2 4
Supporting member in bearing VRd,3 5
End plate in shear (gross section) VRd,4 6
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

End plate in shear (net section) VRd,5 7

End plate in shear (block shear) VRd,6 8
End plate in bending VRd,7 9
Beam web in shear VRd,8 10

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NCCI: Shear resistance of a simple end plate connection

NCCI: Shear resistance of a simple end plate connection

SN014a-EN-EU

2. Parameters
Key: 1. End plate
tp p3 e2,c 2. Supported beam
e1 a
a

p1
2 hp
p1

e1
mp
e2
1

n2 = 2
a Weld throat
Av,net Net shear area of the end plate
do Diameter of hole
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dw Diameter of washer or width across points of bolt head or nut

e1 Longitudinal end distance (end plate)
e2 Transverse edge distance (end plate)
e2,c Transverse edge distance (column flange)
fu,b Ultimate tensile strength of the bolt
fu,b1 Ultimate tensile strength of supported beam
fu,b2 Ultimate tensile strength of supporting beam
fy,c Yield strength of column
fu,c Ultimate tensile strength of column
fu,p Ultimate tensile strength of the end plate
fy,b1 Yield strength of supported beam
fy,b2 Yield strength of supporting beam
fy,p Yield strength of the end plate
hp Height of the end plate
mp Distance between the bolt line and the toe of the weld connecting the end plate to the
beam web (defined as m in Figure 6.2 of EN1993-1-8)
n Total number of bolts (i.e. n1 × n2)
n1 Number of horizontal rows of bolts
n2 Number of vertical lines of bolts. This NCCI is for n2=2
p1 Longitudinal bolt pitch
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

p3 Gauge or distance between cross centres

tf.c Thickness of column flange
tp Thickness of the end plate
tw,b1 Thickness of supported beam web
tw,b2 Thickness of supporting beam web
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NCCI: Shear resistance of a simple end plate connection

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tw,c Thickness of column web

3. Bolts in shear
VRd,1 = 0 ,8 n Fv,Rd

The shear resistance of a single bolt, Fv,Rd is given in Table 3.4 of EN1993-1-8 as:

α v f ub A
Fv,Rd =
γ M2

Where A can be taken as the tensile stress area of the bolt As .

Note: The reduction factor 0,8 allows for the presence of tension in the bolts. For further
explanation (see Ref (1), sections 4.1.1.2 and 6.2.2).

4. End plate in bearing

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Conservatively (From §3.7 (1) of EN1993-1-8)

VRd,2 = nFb, Rd

But if Fv,Rd ≥ Fb,Rd then:

VRd,2 = ∑ Fb,Rd

The bearing resistance of a single bolt, Fb,Rd is given in Table 3.4 of EN1993-1-8 as:

k1α b f u, p d t p
Fb, Rd =
γ M2

⎛ e p1 1 f ub ⎞
Where α b = min⎜ 1 ; − ; ; 1,0 ⎟
⎜ 3d 0 3d 0 4 f u, p ⎟
⎝ ⎠

⎛ e ⎞
k1 = min⎜⎜ 2,8 2 − 1,7; 2,5 ⎟⎟
⎝ d0 ⎠
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

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NCCI: Shear resistance of a simple end plate connection

NCCI: Shear resistance of a simple end plate connection

SN014a-EN-EU

5. Supporting member in bearing

V Rd,3 = nFb, Rd

The bearing resistance of a single bolt, Fb,Rd is given in Table 3.4 of EN1993-1-8 as:
kα f dt
Fb, Rd = 1 b u
γ M2

When the supporting element is a column flange:

t = tf,c

fu = f u, c

⎛ p 1 f ub ⎞
αb = min⎜ 1 − ; ; 1,0 ⎟
⎜ 3d ⎟
⎝ 0 4 f u,c ⎠
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⎛ e ⎞
k1 = min⎜⎜ 2,8 2,c − 1,7; 2,5 ⎟⎟
⎝ d0 ⎠

When the supporting element is a column web:

t = t w, c

fu = f u, c

⎛ p 1 f ub ⎞
αb = min⎜ 1 − ; ; 1,0 ⎟
⎜ 3d ⎟
⎝ 0 4 f u,c ⎠

⎛ p ⎞
k1 = min⎜⎜1,4 3 − 1,7; 2,5 ⎟⎟
⎝ d0 ⎠

When the supporting elements is a beam web:

t = t w, b2

fu = f u, b2

⎛ p 1 f ub ⎞
αb = min⎜ 1 − ; ; 1,0 ⎟
⎜ 3d ⎟
⎝ 0 4
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

f u, b2 ⎠

⎛ p ⎞
k1 = min⎜⎜1,4 3 − 1,7; 2,5 ⎟⎟
⎝ d0 ⎠

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NCCI: Shear resistance of a simple end plate connection

NCCI: Shear resistance of a simple end plate connection

SN014a-EN-EU

6. End plate in shear (gross section)

2hptp f y,p
VRd,4 =
1,27 3 γ M0

Note: The coefficient 1,27 takes into account the reduction of the shear resistance, due to the
presence of in plane bending moment (see Ref (1), section 6.2.2). For further explanation, see
Ref (3).

7. End plate in shear (net section)

f u, p
VRd,5 = 2 Av,net
3 γ M2
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where:

(
Av, net = tp hp − n1d 0 )

8. End plate in shear (block shear)

VRd,6 = 2Veff, Rd

From §3.10.2 of EN1993-1-8:

Generally:

f u, p Ant f y,p Anv

Veff, Rd = Veff,1, Rd = +
γ M2 3 γ M0

But if hp < 1,36 p3 and n1 > 1 then:

0,5 f u, p Ant f y,p Anv

Veff, Rd = Veff,2, Rd = +
γ M2 3 γ M0

where:
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

⎛ d ⎞
Ant is the net area subjected to tension, given by Ant = tp ⎜ e2 − 0 ⎟
⎝ 2⎠

Anv is the net area subjected to shear, given by (

Anv = tp hp − e1 − (n1 − 0,5)d 0 )

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NCCI: Shear resistance of a simple end plate connection

NCCI: Shear resistance of a simple end plate connection

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9. End plate bending (in-plane)

Generally hp ≥ 1,36 p3 (i.e. p3 ≤ hp/1,36) hence:

VRd,7 = ∞

However, when the gauge or distance between cross-centres is large i.e. p3 > hp/1,36 then the
effects of in-plane bending moment in the central section of the end plate become
predominant and reduce its shear resistance (i.e. VRd,7 < VRd,4). Therefore the reduced shear
resistance is:

2 Wel f y,p
VRd,7 =
⎛ p3 − t w, b1 ⎞ γ M0
⎜⎜ ⎟⎟
⎝ 2 ⎠

Where:
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2
t p hp
W el =
6

10. Beam web in shear

From §6.2.6 (2) of EN1993-1-1:

f y,b1
VRd,8 = Av
3 γ M0

For shear area Av, §6.2.6 (3) does not specifically cover the case of a rectangular plate.
However, from case (c) of §6.2.6(3), it would be reasonable to apply 0,9 factor to the area of
the beam web connected to the end plate. Therefore:

Av = 0,9 hp tw,b1

f y,b1
VRd,8 = 0,9 hp t w, b1
3 γ M0
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

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NCCI: Shear resistance of a simple end plate connection

NCCI: Shear resistance of a simple end plate connection

SN014a-EN-EU

11. Weld Design

Provide full strength double fillet welds. The welds are considered as side fillet welds. The
size of the weld throat “a” complies with the following requirement:

a ≥ 0,38 tw,b1 for S235 supported beam

a ≥ 0,39 tw,b1 for S275 supported beam

a ≥ 0,45 tw,b1 for S355 supported beam

t w,b1

a
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s Key: a: weld throat

tp
s: leg length

Figure 11.1 Fillet weld, throat and leg length.

Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

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NCCI: Shear resistance of a simple end plate connection

NCCI: Shear resistance of a simple end plate connection

SN014a-EN-EU

12. Ductility requirements

To ensure adequate ductility, the following requirement must be satisfied.

• If the supporting element is a beam or column web:

d f ub
tp ≤
2,8 f y,p

• If the supporting element is a column flange:

d f ub d f ub
tp ≤ or t f, c ≤
2,8 f y,p 2,8 f y,c

Where d is the diameter of the bolt.

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13. Limits of application

This NCCI applies to two vertical lines of bolts (i.e. n2 = 2) using non-preloaded bolts for
Category A: Bearing type bolted connection in accordance with EN1993-1-8 §3.4.1.

14. Background
The rules in this NCCI are based on:

(1) “European recommendations for the design of simple joints in steel structures –
Document prepared under the supervision of ECCS TC10 by: J.P. Jaspart, S. Renkin
and M.L. Guillaume – First draft September 2003”

(2) Joints in Steel Construction – Simple Connections (P212). The Steel Construction
Institute and The British Constructional Association Ldt., 2002.

(3) Development of a European process for the design of simple structural joint in steel
frames” (in French), by RENKIN Sandra, Diploma work, University of Liege, June
2003
Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

Page 9
NCCI: Shear resistance of a simple end plate connection

NCCI: Shear resistance of a simple end plate connection

SN014a-EN-EU

Quality Record

RESOURCE TITLE NCCI: Shear resistance of a simple end plate connection

Reference(s)

ORIGINAL DOCUMENT

Name Company Date

Created by Edurne Nunez SCI March 2005

Technical content checked by Abdul Malik SCI July 2005

Editorial content checked by D C Iles SCI 16/9/05

Technical content endorsed by the

following STEEL Partners:

1. UK G W Owens SCI 16/9/05

This material is copyright - all rights reserved. Use of this document is subject to the terms and conditions of the Access Steel Licence Agreement

2. France A Bureau CTICM 16/9/05

3. Sweden A Olsson SBI 15/9/05

4. Germany C Müller RWTH 14/9/05

5. Spain J Chica Labein 16/9/05

Resource approved by Technical G W Owens SCI 26/4/06

Coordinator

TRANSLATED DOCUMENT

This Translation made and checked by:

Translated resource approved by:

Created on Saturday, January 05, 2008

Page 10