Verification of the results from IDEA StatiCa

for steel connections according to the U.S.

design codes

Authors:

Baris Kasapoglu, Ph.D. student (Department of Civil, Environmental and Geodetic Engineering)

Rafael Arthur Giorjao, Ph.D. (Department of Materials Science and Engineering)

Ali Nassiri, Ph.D. (Department of Integrated Systems Engineering)

Halil Sezen, Ph.D. (Department of Civil, Environmental and Geodetic Engineering)

June 2021
Introduction:
In the field of structural and civil engineering, understanding the structural behavior and integrity
of the building is critical to ensure the safety of its occupants. However, it is a challenge to analyze
and determine the behavior of a complex structure when it is subjected to a variety of loading
conditions using conventional analytical methods. Therefore, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is a
valuable tool for numerically modeling physical structures that are too complex for analytical
solutions. The overarching objective of this report is to evaluate the FEA results obtained from the
IDEA StatiCa software package for three groups of common steel connections used in the United
States (i.e., simple, semi-rigid, and rigid connections), and compare them with available
experimental data and the results calculated from another FEA software, ABAQUS. The beam-
column joint response obtained from the IDEA StatiCa software is then compared with the design
calculations performed following the requirements of the AISC 360, Specification for Structural
Steel Building (2016), and AISC Steel Construction Manual (2017) codes.

This report includes four chapters. In Chapters 1–3, an experimentally validated connection design
was chosen from the literature for each connection type as a base model. The code design checks
and calculations were performed according to the U.S. building codes for each base model and its
ten variations. Then, the results were compared with the IDEA StatiCa predictions. Additionally,
the FEA results from the IDEA StatiCa were compared with those from ABAQUS. All of the
required steps and details of all geometric and design checks according to the AISC design codes
are included in appendices. The last chapter contains the overall evaluation of the IDEA StatiCa
software in terms of its accuracy and compatibility with the requirements of the U.S. building
codes for the steel connections.

2
CHAPTER 1 SIMPLE CONNECTIONS
1.1. Introduction
In this study, the design strength capacities of ten simple, hinge or pin connection specimens were
calculated following the requirements of the AISC 360 (2016) and AISC Construction Manual
(2017). Four test specimens were selected from the experimental study performed by McMullin
and Astaneh (1988) in the Department of Civil Engineering at the University of California,
Berkeley. Six additional models were developed for verification purposes by modifying the
parameters based on the available test specimens. Then, the baseline model was analyzed using
ABAQUS (2020) and IDEA StatiCa (Version 20.1.3471.1) and the results were compared.
1.2. Experimental Study
Seven full-scale steel beam-column connection specimens were tested, and results were presented
in McMullin and Astaneh (1988). Each connection specimen was bolted to the beam and welded
to the column with double angle sections. Double angle connection used in these experiments and
test set-up are shown in Figure 1.1(a). As shown in Figure 1.1(b), the main goal of these tests is to
apply only shear force in the connection with very small bending or moment. To achieve this
objective, the actuator S near the connection applies the shear force. The actuator R near the tip of
the cantilever aims to keep the beam horizontal and limit the rotation (bending) of the connection.
The properties of the seven double angle connection specimens are provided in Table 1.1.

(a) (b)
Figure 1.1: (a) Double angle connection specimens, and (b) test set-up (McMullin and Astaneh, 1988)

3
Table 1.1: Properties of double angle connections
Test Number Bolt Weld Connection Weld Connection
Angle Size
No. of Bolts Size Size Length Length Detail
4 7 3/4 1/4 20.5 20.5 4 x 3.5 x 3/8 I
5 5 3/4 1/4 14.5 14.5 4 x 3.5 x 3/8 I
6 3 3/4 1/4 8.5 8.5 4 x 4 x 3/8 I
7 7 7/8 5/16 20.5 26.0 4 x 4 x 3/8 III
8 5 7/8 5/16 14.5 20.0 4 x 4 x 3/8 III
9 5 7/8 5/16 14.5 14.5 4 x 4 x 3/8 I
10 5 7/8 5/16 14.5 14.5 4 x 4 x 3/8 II

Beams and columns were made of ASTM A992 steel, and angles were manufactured from ASTM
A36 steel. The material properties of the members are presented in Table 1.2. All bolts were A325
bolts with threads excluded from shear planes. The edge distance of bolts was 1.25 inches from
the top and bottoms of angle sections, while the bolt spacing was 3.0 in. The weld size of each
specimen was 0.25 inches and welded to the column using E-70XX electrodes with a nominal
strength of 70 ksi.

Table 1.2: Material properties

Members Strength (ksi)
Columns and Beams Yield Strength, Fy 50
(A992) Ultimate Strength, Fu 65
Yield Strength, Fy 36
Angles (A36)
Ultimate Strength, Fu 58
Bolts A325 (threads Nominal Tensile Strength, Fnt 90
excluded) Nominal Shear Strength, Fnv 68

Four double angle beam-column connection specimens, Tests No. 4, 5, 6 and 9, were selected out
of the eight specimens tested (Table 1.1). The properties, failure modes, and shear capacities
measured during the testing of these four specimens are provided in Table 1.3. Ultimate failure of
all four specimens was due to weld failure, including in the heat affected zone (HAZ).

4
Table 1.3: Summary of test results
Test Results
Properties of Specimens
at Ultimate Load
Test
No. Bolt Failure Mode
Double Number Shear Rotation
Beam Column Diameter
Angle (in.) of Bolts (kips) (rad)
(in.)
Weld sheared
along its full
4 W24x68 W10x77 4x3.5x3/8 7 3/4 230 0.0257
length
in the HAZ
Weld cracked in
5 W24x68 W10x77 4x3.5x3/8 5 3/4 205 0.0315
HAZ of angle
Weld cracked
6 W24x68 W10x77 4x3.5x3/8 3 3/4 117 0.0414 along the top
length
Weld cracks from
9 W24x68 W10x77 4x4x3/8 5 7/8 192 0.0332
top down

Shear force-rotation and moment-shear diagrams measured during the experiments (McMullin and
Astaneh, 1988) are shown in Figures 1.2 through 1.5 for each of the four specimens modeled and
analyzed in this report.

(a) (b)
Figure 1.2: Test specimen No. 4: a) measured shear on connection-rotation of beam relationship, and b)
moment at weld-shear on connection relationship

5
 (a) (b)
Figure 1.3: Test specimen No. 5: a) measured shear on connection-rotation of beam relationship, and b)
moment at weld-shear on connection relationship

(a) (b)
Figure 1.4: Test specimen No. 6: a) measured shear on connection-rotation of beam relationship, and b)
moment at weld-shear on connection relationship

6
 (a) (b)
Figure 1.5: Test specimen No. 9: a) measured shear on connection-rotation of beam relationship, and b)
moment at weld-shear on connection relationship

1.2.1 Instrumentation
The instrumentation used in this experimental study are (see Figure 1.6):
• Three Linear Variable Displacement Transducers (LVDT)
• Three Linear Potentiometers (LP)
• Two load cells
LVDT 7 was used to measure the separation of the top of the angle relative to the column flange,
while LVDT 5, 6, 8 and 9 measured the relative displacement between the column flange and the
beam flange. The small rotations (less than 0.02 rad.) of the beam can be calculated with the
following equation:
Rotation = (LVDT 5 + LVDT 6 + LVDT 8 + LVDT 9) / (2 x distance between LVDT centerlines)
(1)
The deflection at the end of the beam was measured with LP #3. The deflection across from the
actuator (actuator S in Figure 1.1) was measured using LP #4, while LP #10 was used to measure
the displacement at the bolt line in the direction of the applied shear load. The rotation of the beam
(larger than 0.01 rad.) can be calculated with the following equation:
Rotation = (LP #3 + LP #10) / separation (2)

7
 Figure 1.6: Diagram of the instrumentation used during the experiment (McMullin and Astaneh, 1988)

In this study, it is assumed that the moment at the weld of the connection is the moment transferred
into column. If the location of the inflection point is known, the moment, M, transferred from the
beam can be calculated by multiplying applied shear force, V, by the distance between the
inflection point and the column, e.
M = V·e (3)
However, it is not possible to determine the location of the inflection point because of the
complexity of the connection and loading. From the results obtained during testing, the actual
location of the inflection point can be computed by static analysis for any load during the loading
history and can be obtained as a function of the normalized shear, V/Vmax on the connection.

(a) (b)
Figure 1.7: (a) Normalized shear-eccentricity of Test No 4, and (b) Normalized shear-eccentricity of Test
No 5 (McMullin and Astaneh, 1988)
8
 (a) (b)
Figure 1.8: (a) Normalized shear-eccentricity of Test No 6, and (b) Normalized shear-eccentricity of Test
No 9 (McMullin and Astaneh, 1988)

1.3. Code Design Calculations and Comparisons

The design strength capacities (Rn) of the connections were calculated following the requirements
of AISC Specification for Structural Steel Buildings (AISC 360, 2016) and AISC Steel
Construction Manual (AISC Manual, 2017). The nominal strength, Rn, and the corresponding
resistance factor, , for each connection design limit state for load and resistance factored design
(LRFD) are provided in Chapter J of AISC 360. The following 13 design checks were performed
according to the LRFD design equations included in AISC 360 or AISC Manual.
• Bolt Shear Check (Eq. J3-1, AISC 360-16)
• Bolt Tensile Check (Eq. J3-1, AISC 360-16)
• Bolt Bearing on Beam (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)
• Bolt Tearout on Beam (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)
• Bolt Bearing on Angles (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)
• Bolt Tearout on Angles (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)
• Shear Rupture on Angles (Beam Side) (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-4)
• Block Shear on Angles (Beam Side) (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-5)
• Shear Yielding on Angles (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-3)
• Shear Yielding on Beam (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-3)
• Welds Rupture on Angles (Support Side) (Page 9-5, AISC Manual)
• Weld Capacity (Page 10–11, AISC Manual)
• Weld Capacity (no eccentricity) (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-2)

9
1.3.1 LRFD Design Strength Capacities of four Test Specimens
The design strength capacities (Rn) of the four selected test specimens were calculated by
following the AISC LRFD code requirements, i.e., AISC 360-16 and AISC Manual. The properties
of the four selected test specimens and their design strength capacities are provided in Tables 1.4
and 1.5, respectively. The detailed design strength calculations for Test No. 4 are provided in
Appendix A.
The minimum yield stress, Fy, and the specified minimum tensile strength, Fu, of the materials of
the test specimens are obtained from AISC Construction Manual (2017) Table 2-4. The clear
distance between web fillets, T, the thickness of web of beam, tw, the depth of beam, d, the distance
from outer face of flange to web tow of fillet, k, and the thickness of flange of column, tf, are
obtained from Table 1-1 in AISC Construction Manual (2017). The lengths of the double angles,
L, are provided in the experiment report (McMullin and Astaneh, 1988).
Out of the calculated design capacities for the four test specimens, the lowest shear capacity was
selected in Table 1.5. Comparison of the calculated strengths in Table 1.5 shows that the design
capacity of each of these four double angle specimens was controlled by weld failure according to
AISC Manual, i.e., the lowest strengths are in the second row from the bottom.

10
Table 1.4: Properties of Test Specimens

Properties of Test Specimens Test No. 4 Test No. 5 Test No. 6 Test No. 9
Type W24x68 W24x68 W24x68 W24x68
tw (in.) 0.415 0.415 0.415 0.415
d (in.) 23.7 23.7 23.7 23.7
Beam T (in.) 20.75 20.75 20.75 20.75
k (in.) 17/16 17/16 17/16 17/16
Fy (ksi) 50 50 50 50
Fu (ksi) 65 65 65 65
Type W10x77 W10x77 W10x77 W10x77
tf (in.) 0.87 0.87 0.87 0.87
Column
Fy (ksi) 50 50 50 50
Fu (ksi) 65 65 65 65
Dimension (in.) 4x3-1/2x3/8 4x3-1/2x3/8 4x3-1/2x3/8 4x4x3/8
leg (in.) 4 4 4 4
Double
L (in.) 20.5 14.5 8.5 14.5
Angle
Fy (ksi) 36 36 36 36
Fu (ksi) 58 58 58 58
Type A325 A325 A325 A325
Diameter 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.875
Number 7 5 3 5
Bolts
Threads Excluded Excluded Excluded Excluded
Spacing (in.) 3 3 3 3
Edge dist. (in.) 1.25 1.25 1.25 1.25
Size (in.) 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.3125
Weld Length (in.) 20.5 14.5 8.5 14.5
Electrode E70XX E70XX E70XX E70XX

11
Table 1.5: Calculated LRFD Design Strength Capacities of Test Specimens
Design Checks Test No. 4 Test No. 5 Test No. 6 Test No. 9
Bolt Shear (kips) 315.6 225.4 135.2 306.5
Bolt Tensile (kips) 417.8 298.4 179.0 405.7
Bolt Bearing on Beam (kips) 254.9 182.1 109.3 212.4
Bolt Tearout on Beam (kips) 378.2 344.7 311.2 330.7
Bolt Bearing on Angles (kips) 411.1 293.6 176.2 342.6
Bolt Tearout on Angles (kips) 547.3 375.8 204.4 235.4
Shear Rupture on Angles (kips) 281.4 198.4 114.8 185.8
Block Shear on Angles (kips) 260.5 187.6 114.7 185.4
Shear Yielding on Angles (kips) 332.2 235.0 137.8 235.0
Shear Yielding on Beam (kips) 295.2 295.2 295.2 295.2
Minimum Thickness for Connecting
0.21 0.21 0.21 0.26
Element Rupture Strength (in.)
Weld Capacity by AISC Manual (pp.
186.8 114.6 48.1 126.6
10-11), (kips)
Weld Capacity (no eccentricity) by
228.3 161.5 94.7 201.9
AISC 360-16 Eq. J2.4 (kips)

1.3.2 LRFD Design Strength Capacities of Six Additional Connection Models

The design strength capacities (Rn) of six additional models were calculated by following AISC
LRFD code requirements. The properties of these six connections and their calculated design
capacities are provided in Tables 1.6 and 1.7, respectively. Test No 4 was selected as a baseline
model. The modified properties were bolted and italicized in Table 1.6.
Comparison of the calculated design capacities of the six additional models in Table 1.7 showed
that, in all six additional specimens, the lowest shear capacity corresponds to the weld capacity
calculated from the equations in the AISC Manual (2017).

12
Table 1.6: Properties of Test Specimens

Model 1 Model 2 Model 3 Model 4 Model 5 Model 6

Type W24x68 W24x68 W24x68 W24x68 W24x68 W24x68

tw (in.) 0.415 0.415 0.415 0.415 0.415 0.415
d (in.) 23.7 23.7 23.7 23.7 23.7 23.7
Beam T (in.) 20.75 20.75 20.75 20.75 20.75 20.75
k (in.) 17/16 17/16 17/16 17/16 17/16 17/16
Fy (ksi) 50 50 50 50 50 50
Fu (ksi) 65 65 65 65 65 65
Type W10x77 W10x77 W10x77 W10x77 W10x77 W10x77
tf (in.) 0.87 0.87 0.87 0.87 0.87 0.87
Column
Fy 50 50 50 50 50 50
Fu 65 65 65 65 65 65
Dimen-
4x3.5x3/8 4x3.5x1/2 4x3.5x3/8 4x3.5x3/8 4x3.5x3/8 4x4x3/8
sion (in.)
leg (in) 4 4 4 4 4 4
Double
Angle L (in.) 20.5 20.5 20.5 20.5 20.5 20.5
Fy (ksi) 36 36 36 36 36 36
Fu (ksi) 58 58 58 58 58 58
Type A325-X A325-X A325-X A325-N A325-X A325-X
Diame-ter
0.75 0.75 0.5 0.75 1 0.875
(in.)
Number 7 7 7 7 7 7
Not
Bolts Threads Excluded Excluded Excluded Excluded Excluded
Excluded
Spacing
3 3 3 3 3 3
(in.)
Edge
distance 1.25 1.25 1.25 1.25 1.25 1.25
(in.)
Size (in.) 0.3125 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.3125
Length
Weld 20.5 20.5 20.5 20.5 20.5 20.5
(in.)
Electrode E70XX E70XX E70XX E70XX E70XX E70XX

13
Table 1.7: Calculated LRFD design strength capacities of test specimens

Design Checks Model 1 Model 2 Model 3 Model 4 Model 5 Model 6

Bolt Shear (kips) 315.6 315.6 139.9 250.6 560.6 429.1
Bolt Tensile (kips) 417.8 417.8 185.2 417.8 741.9 568.0
Bolt Bearing on Beam (kips) 254.9 254.9 169.9 254.9 339.9 297.4
Bolt Tearout on Beam (kips) 378.2 378.2 417.8 378.2 328.7 354.8
Bolt Bearing on Angles (kips) 411.1 548.1 274.1 411.1 548.1 479.6
Bolt Tearout on Angles (kips) 547.3 729.7 407.4 547.3 467.4 514.5
Shear Rupture on Angles (kips) 281.4 375.2 315.7 281.4 238.6 264.3
Block Shear on Angles (kips) 260.5 347.1 264.5 260.5 247.1 258.3
Shear Yielding on Angles (kips) 332.2 442.8 332.2 332.2 332.2 332.2
Shear Yielding on Beam (kips) 295.2 295.2 295.2 295.2 295.2 295.2
Minimum Thickness for Connecting
0.26 0.21 0.21 0.21 0.21 0.26
Element Rupture Strength (in.)
Weld Capacity by AISC Manual
233.5 186.8 186.8 186.8 186.8 214.4
(pp. 10-11), (kips)

Weld Capacity (no eccentricity) by

285.4 228.1 228.1 228.1 228.1 285.4
AISC 360-16 Eq. J2.4 (kips)

1.3.3 Calculated ASD Design Strength Capacities

According to allowable strength design (ASD), the allowable strength (Rn/Ω) is calculated by
dividing the nominal strength, Rn by the safety factor, Ω. The allowable strength capacities of
connection specimen Test No. 4 are calculated by following the AISC ASD code requirements.
The properties of this test specimen were given in Table 1.4. The calculated ASD design strength
capacities (Rn/Ω) of the specimen are provided in Table 1.8. The calculated lowest strength is the
weld capacity (124.5 kips) for this specimen. For ASD design purposes, this capacity (124.5 kips)
should be compared with the load demand calculated using the ASD design load combinations
(AISC Manual, 2017). The detailed design strength calculations for Test No. 4 are provided in
Appendix B.

14
Table 1.8: Calculated ASD design strength capacities of Test No. 4
Design Checks Test No. 4
Bolt Shear (kips) 210.4
Bolt Tensile (kips) 278.5
Bolt Bearing on Beam (kips) 170.0
Bolt Tearout on Beam (kips) 252.2
Bolt Bearing on Angles (kips) 274.1
Bolt Tearout on Angles (kips) 364.9
Shear Rupture on Angles (kips) 187.6
Block Shear on Angles (kips) 173.7
Shear Yielding on Angles (kips) 221.5
Shear Yielding on Beam (kips) 196.8
Minimum Thickness for Connecting Element
0.21
Rupture Strength (in.)
Weld Capacity (kips) 124.5
Weld Capacity (no eccentricity) by AISC 152.0
360-16 Eq. J2.4 (kips)

1.4. IDEA StatiCa Analysis

IDEA StatiCa checks four different failure scenarios of this steel connection type: (1) plate failure,
(2) bolt failure, (3) weld failure, and (4) buckling. The selected four test specimens (Table 1.4) and
six additional models (Table 1.6) were modeled in IDEA StatiCa and analyzed under a shear force,
as shown in Figure 1.9. In the software, the location of the shear force can be arbitrarily selected.
Two shear force locations were investigated: (1) in bolts, and (2) at the column face.
The shear force was applied incrementally on the vertical line connecting the bolts and on vertical
welding material in different models until the connections reached their shear capacities in IDEA
StatiCa. In this way, the shear capacities of the four tested specimens and the six additional models
were computed as presented in Tables 1.9 and 1.10.

15
 Figure 1.9: IDEA StatiCa model setup (top) and the wireframe model in bottom for the double
angle connection specimen, Test No 4 (force applied on the centroid of the bolts group)

Table 1.9: Shear capacities of selected test specimens calculated by IDEA StatiCa
Strength Capacity by IDEA
Test No. 4 Test No. 5 Test No. 6 Test No. 9
StatiCa
Strength by IDEA StatiCa -
130.2 73.4 31.3 61.3
force applied on bolts (kips)
Plate failure Plate failure Plate failure Plate failure
Failure mode - force applied
(limit plastic (limit plastic (limit plastic (limit plastic
on bolts
strain, 5%) strain, 5%) strain, 5%) strain, 5%)
Strength by IDEA StatiCa
when force is applied on 216.6 145.4 74.8 168.0
welding (kips)
Plate failure
Failure mode - force applied
Weld failure Weld failure Weld failure (limit plastic
on welding
strain, 5%)

16
Table 1.10: Shear capacities of the six variation models calculated by IDEA StatiCa
Strength Capacity by
Model 1 Model 2 Model 3 Model 4 Model 5 Model 6
IDEA StatiCa
Strength by IDEA
StatiCa force applied 127.3 200.1 129.1 130.2 132.3 127.9
on bolts (kips)
Plate failure Plate failure Plate failure Plate failure
Failure mode force Bolt shear
(limit plastic Weld failure (limit plastic (limit plastic (limit plastic
applied on bolts failure
strain, 5%) strain, 5%) strain, 5%) strain, 5%)
Strength by IDEA
StatiCa force applied 229.0 226.7 136.0 216.5 213.3 234.1
on welding (kips)
Plate failure
Failure mode force Bolt shear Bolt bearing Bolt bearing
(limit plastic Weld failure Weld failure
applied on welding failure failure failure
strain, 5%)

For a new user, modeling the first connection (Test No. 4) takes approximately 8–10 minutes.
Since each of the other connections were modeled by modifying the first one, each took 2–3
minutes. The software completed the calculation for each connection in 5–7 seconds by a personal
computer. The result screen pointing out the failure mode and the deformed shapes (deformation
scale 10) of finite element models from IDEA StatiCa are shown in Appendix C.

1.5. ABAQUS Modeling and Analysis

The aim of this section is to compare the results from IDEA StatiCa with those from another
commercial finite element code. In this study, ABAQUS software package (version 2020) was
utilized. ABAQUS is a robust general-purpose FEA software package suitable for analyzing whole
range of static, dynamic, and nonlinear problems.
In this study, Test No. 4 as described in Section 1.2 was chosen as a base model. Numerical
simulations with almost identical conditions (i.e., in terms of material properties, boundary
condition, and loading) were carried out using both IDEA StatiCa and ABAQUS. The model was
initially designed in IDEA StatiCa and then the assembly (including beam, column, and double
angles) was imported to ABAQUS using the IDEA StatiCa’s viewer platform. Afterward, a
simplified model for the bolt and weld were designed and added to the ABAQUS model (see
Figure 1.10).

17
 Figure 1.10: Model setup in ABAQUS
In ABAQUS, the element type was C3D8R (3D stress, 8-node linear brick, reduced integration),
and a total of 293,294 elements were generated in the model (see Table 1.11 and Figure 1.11 for
more details).

Table 1.11. Number of finite elements in the ABAQUS model

Item Number of Elements

Column 185,902
Beam 19,430
Bolt 6,304
Weld 1,820
Double angle 40,194

18
 Figure 1.11: ABAQUS model mesh densities
As described in the previous section, different results can be achieved depending on the position
of the acting vertical shear force. Therefore, two cases were defined and investigated using the
ABAQUS model. In case 1, the vertical shear force of 130.2 kips was applied on the centroid of
the bolt group (x = 7.045 in., x is the distance from the centerline of the column). In case 2, the
vertical shear force of 216 kips was applied on the weld lines (x = 5.5 in.). It should be mentioned
that in the second case, the beam and column were slightly shorter than the first case to mimic the
experimental test. In both cases, top and bottom of the column were fixed as a boundary condition
(see Figure 1.10). The contact between the parts was defined as surface-to-surface with finite
sliding formulation. Friction was defined with a penalty method, and a Coulomb friction
coefficient of 𝜇 = 0.3 was used everywhere except between the column face and double angles in
which the contact is assumed to be frictionless. Also, tie constraint was applied between the weld
lines and the attaching parts (i.e., column and double angels).
The material behavior was modeled using a bi-linear plasticity in ABAQUS. Other parameters,
including density, elastic modulus, and Poisson’s ratio, were taken from the IDEA StatiCa
materials library. The numerical simulations were carried out on two processors (Intel Xenon (R)
CPU E5-2698 v4 @ 2.20GHz). Each simulation took approximately 155 minutes. Figure 1.12
depicts the comparison of the predicted von-Mises stresses between the IDEA StatiCa and
ABAQUS models for both cases.

19
 Figure 1.12: Predicted von Mises stress between IDEA StatiCa and ABAQUS models; case 1 (top row):
shear load was applied on the centroid of the bolt group, and case 2 (bottom row): shear load was
applied on the weld lines

1.6 Summary and Comparison of Results

1.6.1 Comparison of IDEA StatiCa and AISC Design Strength Capacities
Two different weld capacities were calculated for each test specimen following the AISC LRFD
design requirements. For the same four test specimens (Table 1.3), two different weld capacities
were calculated from the IDEA StatiCa models by applying the shear force at different locations.
In all loading scenarios, it was found that the weakest component of the connections was welding.
The controlling or smallest calculated strengths corresponding to the weld capacities are presented

20
and compared with the ultimate welding shear capacity measured during the experiment in
Table 1.12.
Weld capacities of the test specimens were computed in two different ways by following the AISC
LRFD code requirements (AISC 360-16 and AISC Manual, 2017). For Test No. 4, if Equation
J2.4 in AISC 360-16 is followed, the weld design capacity of the specimen is calculated as
228.3 kips. In this solution, no eccentricity is taken into account. To compare this approach with
the IDEA StatiCa analysis, the vertical shear force was applied on the welding (parallel to the weld
line) and the welding capacity of this specimen was calculated as 216.6 kips, which is very close
the one calculated from Equation J2.4 in AISC 360-16 (228.3 kips in Table 1.12).
When the shear force is applied on the bolts (external vertical force parallel to the bolt line) in the
IDEA StatiCa model, the connection capacity was computed as 130.2 kips. If the welding capacity
is calculated by following the LRFD weld strength equation (Page 10-11 of AISC Construction
Manual, 2017), which considers the eccentricity of the loading on the support side, the welding
capacity of the specimen is calculated as 186.8 kips (Line 1 in Table 1.12). However,
conservatively this AISC LRFD equation does not account for the eccentricity resulting from the
gap between the bolts and welding. It is believed that this assumption is the reason for the
difference between the results calculated from IDEA StatiCa and LRFD strength equation in the
AISC Manual (2017).

Table 1.12: Comparison of measured shear capacities with those calculated from AISC LRFD design
equations and IDEA StatiCa analysis

Strength Capacities Test No. 4 Test No. 5 Test No. 6 Test No. 9
Strength by IDEA StatiCa - force applied
130.2 73.4 31.3 61.3
on bolts (kips)
Strength by AISC Manual - force applied
186.8 114.6 48.1 126.6
on bolts (kips)
Strength by IDEA StatiCa - force applied
216.6 145.4 74.8 168.0
on welding (kips)
Strength by AISC 360-16 Eq. J2.4 - force
228.3 161.5 94.7 201.9
applied on welding (kips)
Ultimate Shear Measured During
230 205 117 192
Experiments (kips)

21
Table 1.13: Comparison of shear capacities of six additional models from AISC LRFD design equations
and IDEA StatiCa analysis

Model Model Model Model Model Model

Strength Capacities
1 2 3 4 5 6
Strength by IDEA StatiCa -
127.3 200.1 129.1 130.2 132.3 127.9
force applied on bolts (kips)
Strength by AISC Manual -
233.5 186.8 139.9 186.8 186.8 214.4
force applied on bolts (kips)
Strength by IDEA StatiCa -
229.0 226.7 136.0 216.5 213.3 234.1
force applied on welding (kips)
Strength by AISC 360-16 Eq.
J2.4 - force applied on welding 285.4 228.1 139.9 228.1 228.1 285.4
(kips)

1.6.2 Comparison of IDEA StatiCa and ABAQUS Results

The comparison between the IDEA StatiCa and ABAQUS results were summarized in
Tables 1.14–1.16 for case 1, and Tables 1.17–1.19 for case 2. In these tables:
𝑭𝒚 : Yield strength
𝝈𝑬𝒅 : Resultant Equivalent stress
𝜺𝒑𝒍 : Plastic Strain
Check status Ok: pass the AISC requirements
𝑭𝒕 : Tension force
𝑽: Resultant of shear forces in bolt
∅𝑹𝒏,𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈: Bolt bearing resistance
𝑼𝒕𝒕 : Utilization in tension
𝑼𝒕𝒔 : Utilization in shear
𝑭𝒏 : Force in weld critical element
∅𝑹𝒏 : Weld resistance

22
Table 1.14. Specified yield strengths and calculated stress, strain, and plates check status (case 1)
IDEA StatiCa ABAQUS
𝑭𝒚 𝝈𝑬𝒅 𝜺𝒑𝒍 Check 𝑭𝒚 𝝈𝑬𝒅 𝜺𝒑𝒍 Check
Item Item
(𝒌𝒔𝒊) (𝒌𝒔𝒊) (%) Status (𝒌𝒔𝒊) (𝒌𝒔𝒊) (%) Status
C-bfl 1 50 25.9 0 Ok
C-tfl 1 50 4.7 0 Ok Column 50 37.75 0 Ok
C-w 1 50 9.2 0 Ok
B-bfl 1 50 36.0 0 Ok
B-tfl 1 50 36.0 0 Ok Beam 50 45.00 0 Ok
B-w 1 50 45.1 0.2 Ok
CLEAT
36 32.7 1.1 Ok Front
1 a-bfl1 Not
double 36 32.40 12.7
CLEAT Ok!
36 33.8 4.9 Ok angle
1 a-w1
CLEAT
36 32.7 1.1 Ok Back
1 b-bfl1 Not
double 36 32.40 12.7
CLEAT Ok!
36 33.8 4.9 Ok angle
1 b-w1

Table 1.15. Calculated tension force, shear force, and bolt bearing resistance when the external load is
applied on the bolt line (case 1)
IDEA StatiCa ABAQUS
𝑭𝒕 𝑽 ∅𝑹𝒏,𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑼𝒕𝒕 𝑼𝒕𝒔 𝑭𝒕 𝑽 ∅𝑹𝒏,𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈𝑼𝒕𝒕 𝑼𝒕𝒔
Item
(𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (%) (%) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (%) (%)
B1 3.10 9.49 16.60 10.4 57.2 3.18 9.64 36.40 9.1 45.9
B2 4.24 9.51 36.28 14.2 53.2 2.47 9.64 36.40 7.1 45.9
B3 4.94 9.46 36.28 16.6 52.9 2.67 9.44 36.40 7.6 45.1
B4 5.63 9.40 36.28 18.9 52.6 5.70 9.53 36.40 16.3 45.4
B5 6.42 9.24 36.28 21.6 51.7 5.01 9.11 36.40 14.3 43.4
B6 7.17 9.10 36.28 24.1 50.9 8.67 8.91 36.40 24.8 42.4
B7 6.88 9.05 36.28 23.1 50.6 10.37 8.92 36.40 29.6 42.5

Table 1.16. Calculated force in weld critical element, weld resistance, and welds check status (case 1)
IDEA StatiCa ABAQUS
𝑭𝒏 ∅𝑹𝒏 𝑼𝒕 𝑭𝒏 ∅𝑹𝒏 𝑼𝒕
Item Status Status
(𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (%) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (%)
C-bfl 1 3.39 4.09 82.9 Ok 4.09 4.13 99.1 Ok
C-bfl 1 3.39 4.09 82.8 Ok 4.09 4.13 99.1 Ok

23
Table 1.17. Specified yield strengths and calculated stress, strain, and plates check status (case 2)
IDEA StatiCa ABAQUS
𝑭𝒚 𝝈𝑬𝒅 𝜺𝒑𝒍 Check 𝑭𝒚 𝝈𝑬𝒅 𝜺𝒑𝒍 Check
Item Item
(𝒌𝒔𝒊) (𝒌𝒔𝒊) (%) Status (𝒌𝒔𝒊) (𝒌𝒔𝒊) (%) Status
C-bfl 1 50 23.3 0 Ok
C-tfl 1 50 4.7 0 Ok Column 50 19.03 0 Ok
C-w 1 50 9.6 0 Ok
B-bfl 1 50 45.0 0 Ok
B-tfl 1 50 45.0 0 Ok Beam 50 45.00 3.6 Ok
B- w 1 50 46.1 3.9 Ok
CLEAT 1 a-bfl1 36 32.8 1.3 Ok Front
double 36 32.40 1.2 Ok
CLEAT 1 a-w1 36 32.4 0.2 Ok angle
CLEAT 1 b-bfl1 36 32.8 1.3 Ok Back
double 36 32.40 1.2 Ok
CLEAT 1 b-w1 36 32.4 0.2 Ok angle

Table 1.18. Calculated tension force, shear force, and bolt bearing resistance when the external load is
applied on the weld line (case 2)

IDEA StatiCa ABAQUS

𝑭𝒕 𝑽 ∅𝑹𝒏,𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑼𝒕𝒕 𝑼𝒕𝒔 𝑭𝒕 𝑽 ∅𝑹𝒏,𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑼𝒕𝒕 𝑼𝒕𝒔
Item
(𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (%) (%) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (%) (%)
B1 7.31 15.92 36.28 24.5 89.1 7.32 15.76 36.40 24.7 88.1
B2 3.79 16.01 36.28 12.7 89.6 3.51 15.95 36.40 11.9 89.2
B3 2.80 15.67 36.28 9.4 87.6 2.83 15.16 36.40 10.1 84.8
B4 2.60 15.55 36.28 8.7 87 2.75 14.43 36.40 8.8 80.6
B5 2.49 15.64 36.28 8.4 87.5 2.33 14.66 36.40 7.8 82.1
B6 2.64 16.03 36.28 8.9 89.7 2.65 14.97 36.40 8.5 83.7
B7 4.31 16.81 36.28 14.5 94 5.63 16.56 36.40 17.9 92.6

Table 1.19. Calculated force in weld critical element, weld resistance, and welds check status (case 2)
IDEA StatiCa ABAQUS
𝑭𝒏 ∅𝑹𝒏 𝑼𝒕 𝑭𝒏 ∅𝑹𝒏 𝑼𝒕
Item Status Status
(𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (%) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (%)
C-bfl 1 3.87 3.87 100 Not OK! 4.1 4.12 99.5 Ok
C-bfl 1 3.87 3.87 100 Not OK! 4.1 4.12 99.5 Ok

In general, there was good agreement between the results of two software packages. In case 1, in
which load was applied on the centroid of the bolt group, more deformation was observed on the
24
double angles in the ABAQUS model. Also, the maximum predicted stress on the beam, column,
and weld lines was slightly higher in the ABAQUS model. In addition, slightly different stress
distribution was observed on the beam in the ABAQUS model. While applying the load on the
bolt group is not common in traditional finite element software, such discrepancy could be
associated with different contact formulations or element types (i.e., solid element in ABAQUS
versus shell element in IDEA StatiCa). Also, due to the nature of the tie constraint, larger stresses
were obtained on the column in the ABAQUS model. In case 2, in which load was applied on the
weld lines, much better agreement was observed between the two models. In both models, it was
found the weakest component of the connections was weld lines. This is also consistent with the
LRFD code design checks (Section 1.6.1). Stress distributions for each case can be seen in
Appendix D.

25
CHAPTER 2 SEMI-RIGID CONNECTIONS
2.1. Introduction
In this chapter, the design strength capacities of ten semi-rigid connection specimens were
calculated following the requirements of the AISC 360 (2016) and AISC Construction Manual
(2017). These specimens were selected from the experimental study performed by Azizinamini et
al. (1985) in the Department of Civil Engineering at University of South Carolina. All specimens
were analyzed using IDEA StatiCa while one of them was analyzed using ABAQUS (2020). Then,
the results were compared.
2.2. Experimental Study on Semi-Rigid Connections
Several semi-rigid connections comprised of double angles and top and seat beam flanges were
subjected to static and cyclic loadings to investigate their moment-rotation behavior. A pair of
specimens was tested at the same time as shown in Figure 2.1. One side of the beam sections were
bolted to the column and the other side was supported by roller-type seats. The vertical movement
of the stub column was allowed by roller guides attached to the top and bottom of the column. The
hydraulic actuator was used to apply the load on the column and the connection transferred the
load to the beams.

Figure 2.1: Test set-up used by Azizinamini et al. (1985)

The moment values were calculated from the actuator load cell readings. To obtain the
corresponding rotations, the displacements measured by the linear variable differential transducers
(LVDT) were converted to relative rotations between the end of the beam and the flange of the
column (Figure 2.2).

In this study, ten specimens subjected to static loading were selected to be analyzed. The properties
of these ten semi-rigid connection specimens are presented in the Table 2.1. All connections were
bolted to beam and column. The first four beam specimens were framed to W14x38 beam section
while W8x21 were used for the other six beam sections. The column section of W12x96 was used
26
for all ten specimens. The members and connections were made of ASTM A36 steel while the
fasteners were ASTM A325 with ¾ in. diameter bolts. The material properties of the members are
provided in Table 2.2.

Figure 2.2: Measurements of horizontal displacements using the LVDT apparatus

Table 2.1: Properties of semi-rigid connection specimens
Top and Bottom Flange Angles Web Angle
Bolt
Specimen Beam Gage in leg Spacing in Number
Number Section Length Length
Angle on column Leg on Angle of the
(in.) (in.)
Flange (in.) Column bolt
Flange (in.)
14S1 W14x38 L6x4x3/8 8 2.5 5.5 2L4x3.5x1/4 8.5 3
14S2 W14x38 L6x4x1/2 8 2.5 5.5 2L4x3.5x1/4 8.5 3
14S3 W14x38 L6x4x3/8 8 2.5 5.5 2L4x3.5x1/4 5.5 2
14S4 W14x38 L6x4x3/8 8 2.5 5.5 2L4x3.5x3/8 8.5 3
8S1 W8x21 L6x3.5x5/16 6 2 3.5 2L4x3.5x1/4 5.5 2
8S2 W8x21 L6x3.5x3/8 6 2 3.5 2L4x3.5x1/4 5.5 2
8S3 W8x21 L6x3.5x5/16 8 2 3.5 2L4x3.5x1/4 5.5 2
8S4 W8x21 L6x6x3/8 6 4.5 3.5 2L4x3.5x1/4 5.5 2
8S5 W8x21 L6x4x3/8 8 2.5 5.5 2L4x3.5x1/4 5.5 2
8S6 W8x21 L6x4x5/16 6 2.5 3.5 2L4x3.5x1/4 5.5 2

27
Table 2.2: Material properties of semi-rigid test specimens
Members Strength ksi
Columns, Beams Yield Strength, Fy 36
and Angles (A36) Ultimate Strength, Fu 58
Bolts A325 Nominal Tensile Strength, Fnt 90
(threads excluded) Nominal Shear Strength, Fnv 68

The bolt spacing was 3.0 in. while the edge distance of bolts was 1.25 inches from the top and
bottom of double angle sections. The longitudinal bolt spacing and the edge distance of top and
seat angles on beam side were 2.5 in. and 1.25 in., respectively while those varied on the angles
attached to the column flange. Similarly, transfer bolt spacing, and edge distance of top and seat
angles varied as provided in Table 2.1. The geometric details of the connections are shown in
Figures 2.3 and 2.4. The summary of the test results measured during static loading are presented
in Table 2.3 and Figures 2.5 through 2.9. The blue line shows the resistance determined by AISC
traditional calculation (Chapter 2.3) and the orange line shows the resistance determined by IDEA
StatiCa (Chapter 2.4).

Figures 2.3: Details of connection for W14x38 beam

28
 Figures 2.4: Details of connection for W8x21 beam

Table 2.3: Summary of test results

29
 (a) (b)
Figure 2.5: Moment-rotation relationship of Test No: a) 14S1 and b) 14S2

(a) (b)
Figure 2.6: Moment-rotation relationship of Test No: a) 14S3 and b) 14S4

(a) (b)
Figure 2.7: Moment-rotation relationship of Test No: a) 8S1 and b) 8S2
30
 (a) (b)
Figure 2.8: Moment-rotation relationship of Test No: a) 8S3, and b) 8S4

(a) (b)
Figure 2.9: Moment-rotation relationship of Test No: a) 8S5, and b) 8S6

2.3. Code Design Calculations and Comparisons

The design strength capacities (Rn) of the connections were calculated following the requirements
of AISC 360 (2016) and AISC Manual (2017). The nominal strength, Rn, and the corresponding
resistance factor,  for each connection design LRFD limit state are provided in Chapter J of AISC
360. It is assumed that the top and seat angles provide moment resistance, and the double web
angle is used for shear resistance for the connection conservatively.
2.3.1 Design strength capacity of double web-angles
The following 14 design checks were performed according to the LRFD design equations included
in AISC 360 or AISC Manual for the design strength capacity of double web-angle.
31
 1. Angle (Beam side)
a. Bolts shear Eq. J3-1, AISC 360-16
b. Bolt bearing and tearout Eq. J3-6, AISC 360-16
c. Shear yielding Eq. J4-3, AISC 360-16
d. Shear rupture Eq. J4-4, AISC 360-16
e. Block shear Eq. J4-5, AISC 360-16
2. Angle (Column side)
a. Bolts shear Eq. J3-1, AISC 360-16
b. Bolt bearing and tearout Eq. J3-6, AISC 360-16
c. Shear yielding Eq. J4-3, AISC 360-16
d. Shear rupture Eq. J4-4, AISC 360-16
e. Block shear Eq. J4-5, AISC 360-16
f. Resulting tension capacity due prying action Part 9, AISC Manual
3. Beam
a. Bolt bearing and tearout Eq. J3-6, AISC 360-16
b. Shear yielding Eq. J4-3, AISC 360-16
4. Column
a. Bolt bearing and tearout Eq. J3-6, AISC 360-16
The design strength capacities (Rn) of double web angles for the ten specimens calculated by
following the AISC LRFD code requirements are provided in Table 2.4.

32
Table 2.4: LRFD design strength capacities (Rn) of double web angles in ten specimens

Design Checks
Design Strength Capacity (kips)
(LRFD)
Specimen
14S1 14S2 14S3 14S4 8S1 8S2 8S3 8S4 8S5 8S6
Number
Angles (Beam side)
- Bolt Shear 135.24 135.24 89.58 134.4 89.58 89.58 89.58 89.58 89.58 89.58
- Bolt Bearing
117.45 117.45 67.70 160.30 67.70 67.70 67.70 67.70 67.70 67.70
and Tearout
- Shear Yielding 91.80 91.80 64.80 145.80 64.80 64.80 64.80 64.80 64.80 64.80
- Shear Rupture 76.73 76.73 55.46 124.8 55.46 55.46 55.46 55.46 55.46 55.46
- Block Shear 71.53 71.53 59.56 125.8 59.56 59.56 59.56 59.56 59.56 59.56
Angles (Column side)
- Bolt Shear 135.24 135.24 89.58 134.4 89.58 89.58 89.58 89.58 89.58 89.58
- Bolt Bearing
117.45 117.45 61.17 150.5 61.17 61.17 61.17 61.17 61.17 61.17
and Tearout
- Shear Yielding 91.80 91.80 64.80 145.80 64.80 64.80 64.80 64.80 64.80 64.80
- Shear Rupture 76.73 76.73 55.46 124.8 55.46 55.46 55.46 55.46 55.46 55.46
- Block Shear 71.53 71.53 52.10 114.6 52.10 52.10 52.10 52.10 52.10 52.10
Beam
- Bolt Bearing
72.81 72.81 48.55 72.82 39.15 39.15 39.15 39.15 39.15 39.15
and Tearout
- Shear Yielding 94.41 94.41 94.41
94.41 44.71 44.71 44.71 44.71 44.71 44.71
Column
- Bolt Bearing 211.41 211.41 281.90 422.80 281.90 281.90 281.90 281.90 281.9 281.9

Out of the calculated design capacities for the ten test specimens, the lowest shear capacities are
shown in bold and italic in Table 2.4. According to the results, the design capacity of two double
web-angles (in specimens 14S1 and 14S2) were controlled by block shear of the bolts on the angle
attached to the beam while bearing and tearout of the bolts on the beam controlled the shear design
capacities of the other eight specimens. The detailed design strength calculations for Test 14S1 are
provided in Appendix E.
2.3.2 Design strength capacity of the top and bottom seat-angles

The following 16 design checks were performed according to the LRFD equations included in
AISC 360 or AISC Manual for the design strength capacity of the top- and seat-angle.
1. Top- and Seat-Angle (Beam Side)
a. Tension yielding Eq. J4-1, AISC 360-16
b. Tension rupture Eq. J4-2, AISC 360-16
c. Compression Sec. J4.4, AISC 360-16
d. Bolts shear Eq. J3-1, AISC 360-16
33
 e. Bolt bearing and tearout Eq. J3-6, AISC 360-16
f. Block shear Eq. J4-5, AISC 360-16
2. Top- and Seat-Angle (Column Side)
a. Shear yielding Eq. J4-3, AISC 360-16
b. Shear rupture Eq. J4-4, AISC 360-16
c. Tension capacity due prying action Page 9-10, AISC Manual
3. Beam
a. Bolt bearing and tearout Eq. J3-6, AISC 360-16
b. Flexural Strength Sec. F13.1, AISC 360-16
c. Block shear Eq. J4-5, AISC 360-16
4. Column
a. Panel web shear Eq. J10-9, AISC 360-16
b. Flange local bending Eq. J10-1, AISC 360-16
c. Web local yielding Eq. J10-2, AISC 360-16
d. Web local crippling Eq. J10-4, AISC 360-16
The design strength capacities (Rn) of top and bottom seat angles in ten specimens are calculated
and provided in Table 2.5. The values highlighted in bold and italic in Table 2.5 show the lowest
shear capacities in the ten test specimens considered. According to the results, the design capacities
of all top and seat angles were controlled by tension capacity due prying action on the angle side
bolted to the column. The design capacity all top and seat angles were controlled by tension
capacity due prying action.

34
Table 2.5: The design strength capacities (Rn) of top and seat-angle for ten specimens

Design Checks
Design Strength Capacity (kips)
(LRFD)
Specimen Number 14S1 14S2 14S3 14S4 8S1 8S2 8S3 8S4 8S5 8S6
Top and Seat Angles (Beam Side)
- Tension Yielding 97.20 129.60 97.20 97.20 60.75 72.90 81.00 72.90 97.20 60.75
- Tension Rupture 101.78 135.94 101.78 101.78 57.77 69.33 84.96 69.33 101.78 57.77
- Compression 93.13 129.60 93.13 93.13 57.12 69.84 76.16 69.84 93.13 57.12
- Bolts Shear 90.16 89.58 90.16 90.16 90.16 90.16 90.16 90.16 90.16 90.16
- Bolt Bearing and
Tearout 99.03 122.34 99.03 99.03 76.46 79.52 76.46 99.03 99.03 99.03
- Block Shear 67.25 117.84 67.25 67.25 63.46 64.43 63.46 76.15 76.15 63.46
Top and Seat Angles (Column Side)
- Shear Yielding 64.80 86.40 64.80 64.80 40.50 48.60 54.00 48.60 64.80 40.50
- Shear Rupture 61.07 81.56 61.07 61.07 34.66 41.60 50.98 41.60 61.07 34.66
- Tension Capacity
13.73 25.01 13.73 13.73 9.00 13.25 12.47 4.84 13.62 6.72
Due Prying Action
Beam
- Bolt Bearing and
120.97 120.97 120.97 120.97 118.76 112.23 118.76 118.76 118.76 118.76
Tearout
- Flexural Strength 166.05 166.05 166.05 166.05 55.08 55.08 55.08 55.08 55.08 55.08
- Block Shear 124.46 124.57 124.46 124.46 83.70 83.70 83.70 83.70 83.70 83.70
Column
- Panel Web Shear 135.79 135.79 135.79 135.79 85.38 85.38 85.38 85.38 85.38 85.38
- Flange Local
164.03 164.03 164.03 164.03 82.94 82.94 82.94 82.94 82.94 82.94
Bending
- Web Local
163.35 168.30 163.35 163.35 88.45 88.45 88.45 88.45 88.45 88.45
Yielding
- Web Local
257.31 264.00 257.31 257.31 112.81 112.81 112.81 112.81 112.81 112.81
Crippling

The moment capacities of the specimens were calculated by multiplying by the tension capacity
(which is identical at the top and bottom angles) by moment arm which is set equal to the distance
from the center of compression to bolt-row in tension (gage in leg on column flange + beam depth
+ a half of the thickness of seated-angle) as provided in Table 2.6. This definition may provide
slightly larger moment arm because the compressive force is likely to be applied above the bolt-
row.

35
Table 2.6: Design moment calculations for the ten semi-rigid connection specimens
Specimen Number 14S1 14S2 14S3 14S4 8S1 8S2 8S3 8S4 8S5 8S6
Tension Capacity
due Prying Action 13.73 25.01 13.73 13.73 9.00 13.25 12.47 4.84 13.62 6.72
(kips)
Beam Depth, d (in.) 14.10 14.10 14.10 14.10 8.28 8.28 8.28 8.28 8.28 8.28
Gage in leg on
column flange, g 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.0 2.0 2.0 4.5 2.5 2.5
(in.)
Flange angle
3/8 1/2 3/8 3/8 5/16 3/8 5/16 3/8 3/8 5/16
thickness, t (in.)
Moment arm, z (d +
16.79 16.85 16.79 16.79 10.44 10.47 10.44 12.97 10.97 10.94
g + t/2) (in.)
Moment Capacity,
230.49 421.42 230.49 230.49 93.93 138.69 130.14 62.76 149.38 73.49
M = T·d (kips-in.)

2.3.3 ASD Design Strength Capacities of Test No. 14S1

According to allowable strength design (ASD), the allowable strength (Rn/Ω) is calculated by
dividing the nominal strength, Rn by the safety factor, Ω. The strength of connection specimen Test
No. 14S1 is calculated by following the AISC ASD code requirements. The properties of this test
specimen were given in Table 2.1. The calculated ASD strength capacities (Rn/Ω) of the specimen
including double web angle, and top and seat angles are provided in Tables 2.7 and 2.8,
respectively. The calculated lowest strength of the double web angles in Test No. 14S1 is
48.54 kips due to the bolt bearing and tearout on the beam. The detailed design strength
calculations for Test No. 14S1 are provided in Appendix F.

36
Table 2.7: ASD strength capacity (Rn) of double web angle for Test No. 14S1

Design
Strength
Design Checks (ASD)
Capacity
(kips)
Angle (Beam side)
- Bolt Shear 90.18
- Bolt Bearing and Tearout 78.30
- Shear Yielding 61.20
- Shear Rupture 51.16
- Block Shear 55.87
Angle (Column side)
- Bolt Shear 90.18
- Bolt Bearing and Tearout 78.30
- Shear Yielding 61.20
- Shear Rupture 51.16
- Block Shear 55.87
Beam
- Bolt Bearing and Tearout 48.54
- Shear Yielding 62.93
Column
- Bolt Bearing 140.94

37
Table 2.8: Design strength capacity (Rn) of top and seat angles in specimen Test No. 14S1

Design
Strength
Design Checks (ASD)
Capacity
(kips)
Top and Seat Angle (Beam Side)
- Tension Yielding 64.67
- Tension Rupture 67.85
- Compression 61.96
- Bolts Shear 60.12
- Bolt bearing and tearout 78.30
- Block Shear 48.04
Top- and Seat-Angle (Column Side)
- Shear Yielding 43.20
- Shear Rupture 40.72
- Tension Capacity Due Prying Action 9.15
Beam
- Bolt Bearing and Tearout 80.66
- Flexural Strength 110.48
- Block Shear 82.98
Column
- Web Panel Zone Shear 90.35
- Flange local Bending 109.13
- Web Local Yielding 108.90
- Web Local Crippling 171.54

The calculated lowest strength of top and seat angle for Test No. 14S1 is 9.15 kips because of the
tension capacity due prying action on the angle bolted to column flange. The moment capacity of
the connection (153.63 kips-in.) can be calculated by multiplying by the tension capacity of the
angle (9.15 kips) by the moment arm (16.79 in.).

2.4. IDEA StatiCa Analysis

2.4.1 Moment capacity analysis using IDEA StatiCa
The ten test specimens were modeled in IDEA StatiCa with and without web angles, and analyzed
under a shear force applied a certain distance away from the column. The distance was selected to
be equal to the one between the column centerline and the beam support. The beam support is
assumed to be at 120 in. away from the column centerline for the first four specimens while it was
72 in. for the other six specimens (this beam support is at the right side of the beam while the left
side of the beam is bolted to the column as shown in Figure 2.1). The shear force was applied
38
incrementally until the connection models reached their capacities in IDEA StatiCa. All specimens
fail because of that the top angles attached to the column exceed the plastic strain limit which is
defined as 5% by the software. The calculated moment capacities of the connection specimens
having and not web angles are shown in Tables 2.9 and 2.10, respectively.
Table 2.9: Moment capacities of the specimens which have web angles calculated using IDEA StatiCa

Specimen Shear force Distance Moment

Number (kips) (in.) (kips-in.)
14S1 2.66 120 319.20
14S2 3.75 120 450.00
14S3 2.33 120 279.60
14S4 3.52 120 422.40
8S1 2.13 72 153.36
8S2 2.65 72 190.80
8S3 2.42 72 174.24
8S4 1.54 72 110.88
8S5 2.55 72 183.60
8S6 1.79 72 128.88

Table 2.10: Moment capacities of the specimens which don’t have web angles calculated using IDEA
StatiCa

Specimen Shear force Distance Moment

Number (kips) (in.) (kips-in.)
14S1 1.77 120 212.40
14S2 2.88 120 345.60
14S3 1.76 120 211.20
14S4 1.76 120 211.20
8S1 1.5 72 108.00
8S2 2.03 72 146.16
8S3 1.79 72 128.88
8S4 0.91 72 65.52
8S5 1.92 72 138.24
8S6 1.16 72 83.52

The screenshots from IDEA StatiCa showing the failure modes, and deformed shapes (deformation
scale 10) of finite element models are shown in Appenix G.

39
2.4.2 Moment-rotation analysis

Moment-rotation analysis for Test No. 14S1 was performed using IDEA StatiCa. To generate the
test condition, the mechanical properties of A36 steel provided in the test report were used (see
Reference 6). The mean values of the yielding and ultimate strength of the material were reported
in Azizinamini et al. (1985) as 40.65 ksi and 68.43 ksi, respectively. These are the properties used
for the materials used in IDEA StatiCa models. The resistance factors were set to be equal 1.0 and
moment-rotation analysis was performed by selecting stiffness analysis option (Figure 2.10).

Figure 2.10: Moment-rotation relationship for Test No. 14S1 computed by IDEA StatiCa

2.5. ABAQUS Analysis

In this section, the output results from IDEA StatiCa were compared to those from ABAQUS
(2020) software package. In this study, Test No. 14S1 specimen, as described in Table 2.1, was
chosen as a base model. Numerical simulations with almost identical conditions (i.e., in terms of
material properties, boundary conditions, and loading) were carried out using both IDEA StatiCa
and ABAQUS. The model was initially designed in IDEA StatiCa and then the assembly
(including beam, column, web angles, and top and seat angles) was imported to ABAQUS using
the IDEA StatiCa’s viewer platform. Afterward, a simplified model for the bolt was designed and
added to the ABAQUS model (see Figure 2.11).

40
 Figure 2.11: Semi-rigid connection model setup in ABAQUS

In ABAQUS, the element type was C3D8R (3D stress, 8-node linear brick, reduced integration),
and a total of 562,377 elements were generated in the model. More details are provided in
Table 2.11 and Figure 2.12.

Table 2.11. Number of elements in the ABAQUS model

Item Number of Elements
Column 69,167
Beam 167,574
L-6x4x3/8 60,550
L-4x31/2x1/4 33,619
Bolt 6,538

41
 Figure 2.12: ABAQUS model mesh densities

In the ABAQUS model, the vertical force of 2.66 kips was applied on a reference point (or node)
that was defined 10 ft away from the centerline of the column (i.e., x = 10 ft). Then, the coupling
constraint (i.e., structural distributing) was defined to connect this reference point to the end
section of the beam. The top and bottom of the column were fixed as a boundary condition (see
Figure 2.11). The contact between all parts including column to all angles was defined as surface-
to-surface with finite sliding formulation. Friction was defined with a penalty method, and a
Coulomb friction coefficient of 𝜇 = 0.3 was used everywhere except between the column face and
each angle, in which the contact was assumed to be frictionless.
The material behavior was modeled using a bi-linear plasticity in ABAQUS. Other parameters
including density, elastic modulus, and Poisson’s ratio were exactly taken from the IDEA StatiCa
materials library. The numerical simulations were carried out on four processors (Intel Xenon (R)
CPU E5-2698 v4 @ 2.20GHz) and each simulation took approximately 535 minutes to finish.
Figure 2.13 compares the calculated von-Mises stresses in IDEA StatiCa and ABAQUS.
Figure 2.14 also shows the side view in which the deformation scale factor of ten was applied to
models in both sotfware.

42
 Figure 2.13: Comparison of the predicted von-Mises stress between IDEA StatiCa and ABAQUS

Figure 2.14: Side view comparison between IDEA StatiCa and ABAQUS with deformation scale factor of
ten

43
2.6 Summary and Comparison of Results
2.6.1 Comparison of connection capacities from IDEA StatiCa analysis, AISC design codes,
and Experiments
The design strength capacities (Rn) of the ten semi-rigid connections were calculated using
AISC 360 and AISC Manual (2017). The moment capacities of the specimens were calculated
using a conservative approach assuming moment is carried by top and seat angles while web angles
resist shear force only. The smallest calculated strengths were determined, and the moment
capacities of the connections were obtained corresponding to these controlling strengths.

First, the same specimens were modeled in IDEA StatiCa and analyzed under a shear force applied
120 in. away from the column centerline for the first four specimens (14S1, 14S2, 14S3, 14S4);
and 72 in. away for the other six specimens (8S1, 8S2, 8S3, 8S4, 8S5, 8S6). The shear force was
increased incrementally until the connections reached their capacities. The moment capacities of
the connections were obtained by multiplying by the distance between the shear force application
point and column centerline, and the ultimate shear force reached in the incremental loading. In
the second part, the web angles were removed out of the specimens, and the moment capacities of
top and seated connections were obtained by following the same procedure to eliminate the
resistance of web angles on the moment capacities of the specimens in IDEA analysis. The results
were compared in Table 2.12.

Table 2.12: Comparison of the moment capacities of the specimens calculated from AISC design
equations and IDEA StatiCa analysis
IDEA StatiCa Analysis of the IDEA StatiCa Analysis of the
AISC LRFD Design
specimens which have web specimens which don’t have
Strength Moment
Specimen angles, Moment Capacities web angles, Moment
Capacities (kips-in.)
Number (kips-in.) Capacities (kips-in.)
14S1 230.49 319.20 212.40
14S2 421.42 450.00 345.60
14S3 230.49 279.60 211.20
14S4 230.49 422.40 211.20
8S1 93.93 151.92 108.00
8S2 138.69 190.80 146.16
8S3 130.14 174.24 128.88
8S4 62.76 110.88 65.52
8S5 149.38 184.32 138.24
8S6 73.49 128.88 83.52

The moment-rotation relationship of the Test No. 14S1 was calculated from IDEA StatiCa analysis
using the mean measured material properties (the mean values of the material strengths (Fu, Fy)
tested in the lab and provided in the test report) of the tested specimens measured in the
44
experimental study. The calculated response is compared with the moment-rotation relationship
provided in the test report (Figure 2.15).

Figure 2.16: Comparison of the moment-rotation relationships of Test No. 14S1 measured during the
experiment and calculated from IDEA StatiCa
2.6.2 Comparison of IDEA StatiCa and ABAQUS Results

The comparison between the IDEA StatiCa and ABAQUS results were summarized in Tables 2.13
and 2.14. In general, there was good agreement between the results of two software packages.
However, more deformation was captured on the web angeles, top, and bottom flanges in the IDEA
StatiCa model. Also, the stress distributions on the web angles were slightly different between the
two models. This is most likely due to the fact that in the ABAQUS model solid elements with
reduced integration were utilized. In both models, it was found that the weakest component of the
assembly was the top flange in tension under the applied shear force pointing downward, which
introduces tension in the top flange. Stress distribution for each part can be seen in Appendix H.

45
Table 2.13. Specified yield strengths and calculated stress, strain, and plates check status
IDEA StatiCa ABAQUS
𝑭𝒚 𝝈𝑬𝒅 𝜺𝒑𝒍 Check 𝑭𝒚 𝝈𝑬𝒅 𝜺𝒑𝒍 Check
Item Item
(𝒌𝒔𝒊) (𝒌𝒔𝒊) (%) Status (𝒌𝒔𝒊) (𝒌𝒔𝒊) (%) Status
C-bfl 1 36 13.7 0 Ok
C-tfl 1 36 1.2 0 Ok Column 36 15.624 0 Ok
C-w 1 36 8.6 0 Ok
B-bfl 1 36 17.2 0 Ok
B-tfl 1 36 32.4 0 Ok Beam 36 32.398 0 Ok
B- w 1 36 29.3 0 Ok
CLEAT
36 33.3 3.1 Ok L-4 x 3 1/2 x
1 a-bfl1
1/4 36 32.398 0.8 Ok
CLEAT
36 33 2.1 Ok (Front)
1 a-w1
CLEAT
36 33.2 2.6 Ok L-4 x 3 1/2 x
1 b-bfl1
1/4 36 32.398 0.8 Ok
CLEAT
36 33 2.1 Ok (Back)
1 b-w1
CLEAT
36 33.9 5 Ok
2 -bfl1 L-6 x 4 x 3/8
36 32.398 1.8 Ok
CLEAT (Top)
36 33.8 4.7 Ok
2 -w1
CLEAT
36 26 0 Ok
3 -bfl1 L-6 x 4 x 3/8
36 32.398 0.1 Ok
CLEAT (Bottom)
36 32.5 0.3 Ok
3 -w1

46
Table 2.14. Calculated Tension Force, Shear Force, and Bolt Bearing Resistance
IDEA StatiCa ABAQUS
𝑭𝒕 𝑽 ∅𝑹𝒏,𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑼𝒕𝒕 𝑼𝒕𝒔 𝑭𝒕 𝑽 ∅𝑹𝒏,𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑼𝒕𝒕 𝑼𝒕𝒔
Item
(𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (%) (%) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (%) (%)
B1 2.28 1.083 24.359 7.7 8.9 2.169 1.025 26.364 7.2 7.8
B2 3.777 2.250 21.318 12.7 21.1 3.401 2.035 23.146 11.4 17.6
B3 5.633 3.905 18.959 18.9 41.2 5.736 3.621 20.486 19.2 35.4
B4 8.397 2.179 16.596 28.2 13.1 7.536 2.023 17.895 25.2 11.3
B5 14.791 1.841 17.469 49.6 10.5 14.483 1.705 18.869 48.6 9.0
B6 19.713 1.486 19.580 66.2 7.6 18.751 1.526 21.132 62.9 7.2
B7 8.411 2.179 16.585 28.2 13.1 7.555 2.022 17.879 25.3 13.3
B8 14.821 1.842 17.456 49.7 10.5 14.491 1.705 18.859 48.6 9.0
B9 19.731 1.490 19.580 66.2 7.6 18.751 1.526 21.132 62.9 7.2
B10 12.306 3.391 29.293 41.3 15.0 11.89 3.556 31.615 39.9 15.8
B11 12.276 3.390 29.293 41.2 15.0 11.89 3.556 31.615 39.9 15.8
B12 0.233 3.069 16.285 0.8 18.8 0.450 3.456 17.575 1.5 19.6
B13 0.233 3.069 16.285 0.8 18.8 0.450 3.456 17.575 1.5 19.6
B14 23.861 3.134 22.136 80.1 14.2 23.259 3.222 23.752 78.1 13.5
B15 23.868 3.137 22.138 80.1 14.2 23.259 3.222 23.752 78.1 13.5
B16 2.476 6.092 29.370 8.3 27 2.569 5.957 31.559 8.6 26.4
B17 2.475 6.092 29.370 8.3 27 2.569 5.957 31.559 8.6 26.4
B18 0.423 6.318 29.370 1.4 28 0.445 6.152 31.559 1.5 27.2
B19 0.424 6.318 29.370 1.4 28 0.445 6.152 31.559 1.5 27.2
B20 0.358 1.575 29.370 1.2 7 0.258 1.456 31.559 0.9 6.4
B21 0.364 1.579 29.370 1.2 7 0.258 1.456 31.559 0.9 6.4

47
CHAPTER 3 RIGID CONNECTIONS

3.1. Introduction
In this chapter, the design strength capacities of ten rigid connection specimens were calculated
following the requirements of the AISC 360 (2016) and AISC Construction Manual (2017). The
baseline specimen was selected from the experimental study performed by Sato et al. (2007) in the
Department of Structural Engineering at University of California, San Diego. The baseline
specimen and nine additional variation models were analyzed using IDEA StatiCa while the
baseline specimen was also analyzed using ABAQUS (2020). The results were then compared at
the end of the chapter.
3.2. Experimental Study on Rigid Connections
Three full-scale bolted flange plate (BFP) moment connections were subjected to cycling testing
at the University of California, San Diego. All specimens met the requirement of AISC Seismic
Provisions for Structural Steel Buildings for the beam-column connections of special moment
frames. The lateral bracing distance for the specimens was determined in accordance with this
provision. The vertical displacements were applied by a hydraulic actuator at the tip of the beam
as shown in Figure 3.1.

Figure 3.1: Test Setup: (a) schematic; (b) photo (Sato et al., 2007)
The loading began at 0.375% drift and the displacement magnitude was increased until the
specimen failed. the applied load was measured by the load cell mounted on the actuator. The
transducer L1 in Figure 3.2 measured the total displacement of the beam tip while the column
horizontal movement was recorded by L5 and L6. The average shear deformation of the column
panel zone was measured by L9 and L10 (Figure 3.2). The moment-rotation relationships at
column face were obtained for all specimens using the data measured by these instruments.

48
 Figure 3.2: Displacement transducer locations (Sato et al., 2007)
In this study, the Specimen No. BFP was selected as a baseline model. For this specimen, the
loading was applied at approximately 177.5 in. away from the column face. The details of this
connection are shown in Figures 3.3 and 3.4.

Figure 3.3: Moment connection details for the specimen No. BFP (Sato et al., 2007)

49
 Figure 3.4: Bolt schedule details for the specimen No. BFP: (a) flange plate; and (b) beam flange
(Sato et al., 2007)
All bolts were A325 bolts with threads excluded from shear planes. The beam and column sections
were made of A992 steel while all plates were made of A572 Gr. 50 steel. The material properties
of the members obtained by Colorado Metallurgical Services (CMS) and Certified Mill Test
Reports are presented in Table 3.1.
Table 3.1: Steel mechanical properties
Yield Tensile
Steel
Member Strength Strength
Grade
(ksi) (ksi)
51.5 76.5
Column A992
(57.0) (75.5)
52.0 77.5
Beam A992
(57.0) (75.0)
A572 Gr. 60.5 87.5
Plate
50 (63.0) (85.3)
Note: Values in parentheses are based on Certified Mill Test Reports, others from testing by CMS.

The flange plates were welded to the flange of the column using electroslag welding (ESW)
process. Two Arcmatic 105-VMC 3/32 in. diameter electrodes were used. This electrode has a
specified minimum Charpy-V Notch Toughness of 15 ft-lbs at -20°F. Flux (FES72) was added by
hand per the fabricator’s standard procedure.

The Specimen No. BFP failed by beam flange net section fracture when the interstory drift angle
of 0.06 radians was achieved during testing. The applied load-beam tip displacement and the
moment at column face-beam rotation relationships are provided in Figures 3.5 and 3.6. The
fracture location and beam bottom flange net section fracture are shown in Figures 3.7 and 3.8.

50
 Figure 3.5: Applied load-beam tip displacement (Sato et al., 2007)

Figure 3.6: Moment at column face-beam rotation (Sato et al., 2007)

51
 Figure 3.7: Fracture location (Sato et al., 2007)

Figure 3.8: Beam bottom flange net section fracture on 2nd cycle at +6% drift

52
3.3. Code Design Calculations and Comparisons

The design strength capacities (Rn) of ten rigid connections were calculated following the
requirements of AISC Specification for Structural Steel Buildings (AISC 360, 2016) and AISC
Steel Construction Manual (AISC Manual, 2017). The nominal strength, Rn, and the corresponding
resistance factor, , for each connection design limit state for load and resistance factored design
(LRFD) are provided in Chapter J of AISC 360.
The Specimen No. BFP was selected as a baseline model from the experimental study and nine
additional variation models were generated by changing only one parameter at a time from the
baseline model. The properties of the baseline and nine additional variation models are shown in
Table 3.2. The changing parameters were bolded and italicized.
Table 3.2: Properties of the ten specimens
Single Web Plate Flange Plates
Speci- Web Plate Weld Bolt Flange Bolt
Beam Column Bolt Bolt
men No Geometry Size Dia. Plates Dia.
Schedule Schedule
(in.) (in.) (in.) (in.) (in.)
BFP W30x108 W14x233 3/8x4.5x23.5 1/4 8x1 3/4 1.5x12x24 1 7x2
Model 1 W30x108 W14x233 1/4x4.5x23.5 1/4 8x1 3/4 1.5x12x24 1 7x2
Model 2 W30x108 W14x233 3/8x4.5x23.5 1/4 8x1 1/2 1.5x12x24 1 7x2
Model 3 W30x108 W14x233 3/8x4.5x23.5 1/2 6x1 3/4 1.5x12x24 1 7x2
Model 4 W30x108 W14x311 3/8x4.5x23.5 1/4 8x1 3/4 1.5x12x24 1 7x2
Model 5 W30x108 W14x370 3/8x4.5x23.5 1/4 8x1 3/4 1.5x12x24 1 7x2
Model 6 W30x108 W14x233 3/8x4.5x23.5 1/4 8x1 3/4 1x12x24 1 7x2
Model 7 W30x108 W14x233 3/8x4.5x23.5 1/4 8x1 3/4 1.5x12x24 3/4 7x2
Model 8 W30x108 W14x233 3/8x4.5x23.5 1/4 8x1 3/4 1.5x12x24 1 5x2
Model 9 W30x108 W14x233 3/8x4.5x23.5 1/4 8x1 3/4 1.5x12x24 1 3x2

3.3.1 Design strength capacity of single web plates

The following eight design checks were performed according to the LRFD design equations
included in AISC 360 or AISC Manual for the design strength capacities of single web plate.
1. Web Plate
a. Bolts shear Eq. J3-1, AISC 360-16
b. Bolt bearing and tearout Eq. J3-6, AISC 360-16
c. Shear yielding Eq. J4-3, AISC 360-16
d. Shear rupture Eq. J4-4, AISC 360-16
e. Block shear Eq. J4-5, AISC 360-16
f. Weld shear Eq. 8-2, AISC Manual
2. Beam
a. Bolts shear Eq. J3-1, AISC 360-16
b. Bolt bearing and tearout Eq. J3-6, AISC 360-16
53
The design strength capacities (Rn) of single web plates of the ten specimens calculated by
following AISC LRFD code requirements are provided in Table 3.3. The lowest shear capacities
were bolded and italicized. Out of the calculated design capacities for the ten test specimens, the
design capacity of model 2 was controlled by shear rupture while bolt shear led to failure for the
other eight specimens.
Table 3.3: The design strength capacities (Rn) of sing web-plates of the ten specimens
Design
Checks Design Strength Capacity (kips)
(LRFD)
Specimen Model Model Model Model Model Model Model Model Model
BFP
Number 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Web Plate
- Bolt shear 180.32 180.32 80.14 135.24 180.32 180.32 180.32 180.32 180.32 180.32
- Bolt
bearing and 263.25 175.50 175.50 197.44 263.25 263.25 263.25 263.25 263.25 263.25
tearout
- Shear
264.30 176.20 264.30 196.82 264.30 264.30 264.30 264.30 264.30 264.30
yielding
- Shear
181.06 120.71 202.07 134.41 181.06 181.06 181.06 181.06 181.06 181.06
rupture
- Block
191.00 127.66 209.44 144.88 191.00 191.00 191.00 191.00 191.00 191.00
shear
- Weld
261.70 261.70 261.70 194.90 261.70 261.70 261.70 261.70 261.70 261.70
shear
Beam
- Bolt
bearing and 382.59 382.59 255.06 286.94 382.59 382.59 382.59 382.59 382.59 382.59
tearout
- Shear
487.72 487.72 487.23 804.96 487.72 487.72 487.72 487.72 487.72 487.72
yielding

3.3.2 Design strength capacity of flange plates

The following 13 design checks were performed according to the LRFD design equations included
in AISC 360 or AISC Manual for the design strength capacities of flange plates.
1. Flange Plate
a. Bolts shear Eq. J3-1, AISC 360-16
b. Bolt bearing and tearout Eq. J3-6, AISC 360-16
c. Tensile yielding Eq. J4-3, AISC 360-16
d. Tensile rupture Eq. J4-4, AISC 360-16
e. Block shear Eq. J4-5, AISC 360-16
f. Compression Sec. J4-4, AISC 360-16
2. Beam
a. Bolt bearing and tearout Eq. J3-6, AISC 360-16
b. Flexural Sec. F13.1, AISC 360-16
54
 c. Block shear Eq. J4-5, AISC 360-16
3. Column
a. Panel web shear Eq. J10-9, AISC 360-16
b. Flange local bending Eq. J10-1, AISC 360-16
c. Web local yielding Eq. J10-2, AISC 360-16
d. Web local crippling Eq. J10-4, AISC 360-16
The design strength capacities (Rn) of flange plates of ten specimens calculated by following
AISC LRFD code requirements are provided in Table 3.4. The lowest shear capacities were shown
in bold and italic.
Table 3.4: The design strength capacities (Rn) of flange plates of ten specimens
Design Checks
Design Strength Capacity (kips)
(LRFD)
Specimen Number BFP Model 1 Model 2 Model 3 Model 4 Model 5 Model 6 Model 7 Model 8 Model 9
Flange Plate

- Bolt shear 692.44 692.44 692.44 692.44 692.44 692.44 692.44 389.84 496.6 296.76

- Bolt bearing and

2,402.60 2,402.60 2,402.60 2,402.60 2,402.60 2,402.60 1,605.20 2,760.60 1,748.00 1,088.1
tearout
- Tensile yielding 810.00 810.00 810.00 810.00 810.00 810.00 540.00 810.00 810.00 810.00
- Tensile rupture 704.00 704.00 704.00 704.00 704.00 704.00 469.30 665.60 704.00 704.00
- Block shear 1,517.30 1,517.30 1,517.30 1,517.30 1,517.30 1,517.30 1,011.60 1,718.40 1,199.30 881.20
- Compression 810.00 810.00 810.00 810.00 810.00 810.00 540.00 810.00 810.00 810.00
Beam
- Bolt bearing and
1,128.18 1,128.18 1,128.18 1,128.18 1,128.18 1,128.18 1,128.18 933.66 1297.50 461.27
tearout
- Block shear 668.95 668.95 668.95 668.95 668.95 668.95 668.95 770.64 507.59 346.42
- Flexural 1,297.50 1,297.50 1,297.50 1,297.50 1,297.50 1,297.50 1,297.50 1,297.50 794.72 1,297.50
Column
- Web panel zone
462.24 462.24 462.24 462.24 651.00 802.28 462.24 462.24 462.24 462.24
shear
- Flange local
832.05 832.05 832.05 832.05 1436.51 1990.01 832.05 832.05 832.05 832.05
bending
- Web local yielding 700.85 700.85 700.85 700.85 1113.90 1477.40 700.85 700.85 700.85 700.85
- Web local crippling 1,193.12 1,193.12 1,193.12 1,193.12 2,053.80 2,832.00 1,193.12 1,193.12 1,193.12 1,193.12

Out of the calculated design capacities for the ten test specimens, the design capacity of seven
specimens was controlled by web panel zone shear, two specimens were controlled by bolt shear
and one specimen was controlled by block shear. The moment capacities of the specimens were
calculated by multiplying by the controlling design capacity by the moment arm as provided in
Table 3.5. The moment arm is equal to the depth of the beam for bolt shear while it is equal to the
summation of the depth of the beam and the thickness of the plate for web panel zone shear and
block shear strengths (BFP, models 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8). The detailed design strength calculations
for Test No. BFP are provided in Appendix I.
55
Table 3.5: The moment capacities of the ten rigid connection specimens
Specimen Governing Length of the Moment capacity
number strength (kips) moment arm (in.) (kips-in.)
BFP 462.24 31.33 14,481.98
Model 1 462.24 31.33 14,481.98
Model 2 462.24 31.33 14,481.98
Model 3 462.24 31.33 14,481.98
Model 4 651.00 31.33 20,395.83
Model 5 668.95 29.83 19,954.78
Model 6 462.24 30.83 14,250.86
Model 7 389.84 29.83 11,628.93
Model 8 462.24 31.33 14,481.98
Model 9 296.76 29.83 8,852.351

3.3.3 Calculated ASD Design Strength Capacities of Test No. BFP

According to allowable strength design (ASD), the allowable strength (Rn/Ω) is calculated by
dividing the nominal strength, Rn by the safety factor, Ω. The allowable strength capacities of
connection specimen Test No. BFP are calculated by following the AISC ASD code requirements.
The properties of this test specimen were given in Table 3.2. The calculated ASD design strength
capacities (Rn/Ω) of the specimen for the web plate and flange plates are provided in Tables 3.6
and 3.7, respectively.

Table 3.6: The design strength capacity (Rn) of the web-plate for Test No. BFP

Design Checks (ASD) Design Strength Capacity (kips)

Web Plate
- Bolt shear 120.22
- Bolt bearing and tearout 175.52
- Shear yielding 176.20
- Shear rupture 120.71
- Block shear 127.34
- Weld capacity 174.46
Beam
- Bolt bearing and tearout 227.60
- Shear yielding 325.20

56
Table 3.7: The design strength capacity (Rn) of the flange plates for Test No. BFP

Design Strength
Design Checks (ASD)
Capacity (kips)
Flange Plate
- Bolt shear 461.58
- Bolt bearing and tearout 1601.76
- Tensile yielding 538.92
- Tensile rupture 469.30
- Block shear 1011.53
- Compression 538.92
Beam
- Bolt bearing and tearout 752.12
- Block shear 445.97
- Flexural strength 863.27
Column
- Web panel zone shear 307.54
- Flange local bending 553.59
- Web local yielding 467.23
- Web local crippling 795.42

The calculated lowest strength of the web plate for Test No. BFP is 101.01 kips due to the bolt
shear failure while the controlling strength of the flange plate is 307.54 kips because of web panel
zone shear failure. The moment capacities of the specimen can be calculated by multiplying by the
governing strength of the flange plate (307.54 kips) by the distance of the moment arm (31.33 in.)
which is equal to the depth of the beam (29.83 in.) plus one plate thickness (1.5 in.). The detailed
design strength calculations for Test No. BFP are provided in Appendix J.

3.4. IDEA StatiCa Analysis

3.4.1 Moment capacity analysis using IDEA StatiCa
The ten rigid steel connection specimens were modeled in IDEA StatiCa and analyzed under a
shear force applied at 177.5 in. away from the column centerline as in the test report. The shear
force was increased incrementally until the connections reached their capacities in IDEA StatiCa.
The calculated maximum moment capacities are shown in Table 3.8.

57
Table 3.8: LRFD moment capacities of the specimens calculated by IDEA StatiCa
IDEA StatiCa
Specimen Shear force Moment Arm Failure
(kips) (in.) Moment (kips-in.) Mode
Beam flange failure
BFP 96.70 177.50 17,164.25
(limit plastic strain, 5%)
Bolt shear failure on
Model 1 96.05 177.50 17,048.88
web plate
Bolt shear failure on
Model 2 96.00 177.50 17,040.00
web plate
Bolt shear failure on
Model 3 96.10 177.50 17,057.75
web plate
Beam flange failure
Model 4 100.20 177.50 17,785.50
(limit plastic strain, 5%)
Beam flange failure
Model 5 100.40 177.50 17,821.00
(limit plastic strain, 5%)
Flange plate failure
Model 6 89.70 177.50 15,921.75
(limit plastic strain, 5%)
Bolt shear failure on
Model 7 64.00 177.50 11,360.00
flange plate
Beam flange failure
Model 8 92.00 177.50 16,330.00
(limit plastic strain, 5%)
Bolt shear failure on
Model 9 61.00 177.50 10,827.50
flange plate

The IDEA StatiCa screenshots showing the failure modes as well as the deformed shapes of finite
element models are shown in Appendix K.

3.4.2 Moment-rotation analysis

Moment-rotation analysis for Test No. BFP was performed using IDEA StatiCa. To be able to
generate the test condition, the mean values of yielding and tensile strength of the materials
measured by CMS and Certified Mill Test Reports were used (Table 3.9). The mean values defined
in IDEA StatiCa and the resistance factors were adjusted to 1.0. Then, the moment-rotation
analysis was performed by choosing stiffness analysis option (Figure 3.9).

58
Table 3.9: Mean values of measured material properties
Yield Tensile
Steel
Member Strength Strength
Grade
(ksi) (ksi)
Column A992 54.25 76
Beam A992 54.5 76.25
Plate A572 Gr. 50 61.75 86.4

Figure 3.9: Moment-rotation relationship for Test No. BFP (IDEA StatiCa)
3.5. ABAQUS Analysis
In this section the output results from IDEA StatiCa were compared to ABAQUS software package
(version 2020). In this study, Test BFP, as described in Table 3.2, was chosen as a base model.
Numerical simulations with almost identical conditions (i.e., in terms of material properties,
boundary condition, and loading) were carried out using both IDEA StatiCa and ABAQUS. The
model was initially designed in IDEA StatiCa and then the assembly (including beam, column,
and plates) was imported to ABAQUS using the IDEA StatiCa’s viewer platform. Afterward, a
simplified model for the bolt was designed and added to the ABAQUS model (see Figure 3.10).

59
 Figure 3.10: Model setup in ABAQUS
In ABAQUS, the element type was C3D8R (3D stress, 8-node linear brick, reduced integration),
and a total of 681,016 elements were generated in the model (see Table 3.10 and Figure 3.11 for
more details).

Table 3.10. Number of elements in the ABAQUS model

Item Number of Elements
Column 100,569
Beam 38,091
Plate 1 5,164
Plates 2, 3 7,892
Stiffener 1,824
Bolt ¾ in. 7,032
Bolt 1.0 in. 16,152
Weld group 700

60
 Figure 3.11: ABAQUS model mesh densities
In the ABAQUS model, the vertical shear force of 5.8 kips was applied on a reference point (or
node) that was defined 177.5 in. away from the center of the column (i.e., x = 177.5 in.). Then, the
coupling constraint (i.e., structural distributing) was defined to connect this reference point to the
end section of the beam. The top and bottom of the column were fixed as a boundary condition
(see Figure 3.10). The contact between all parts was defined as surface-to-surface with finite
sliding formulation. Friction was defined with a penalty method, and a Coulomb friction
coefficient of 𝜇 = 0.3 was used between all the parts in contact. The top and bottom plates (i.e.,
Plate 2 and Plate 3) were also welded to the column.
The material behavior was modeled using a bi-linear plasticity in ABAQUS. Other parameters
including density, elastic modulus, and poisons ratio were copied from the IDEA StatiCa materials
library. The numerical simulations were carried out on eight processors (Intel Xenon (R) CPU E5-
2698 v4 @ 2.20GHz) and the simulation took approximately 685 minutes. Figure 3.12 depicts the
comparison between the predicted von-Mises stress in IDEA StatiCa and ABAQUS. Figure 3.13
also shows the side view in which the deformation scale factor of 20 was applied to models in both
sotfware.

61
 Figure 3.12: Comparison of the predicted von-Mises stress between IDEA StatiCa and ABAQUS

Figure 3.13: Side view comparison between IDEA StatiCa and ABAQUS
with deformation scale factor of 20
3.6 Summary, Comparison and Results
3.6.1 Comparison of IDEA StatiCa Analysis Data, AISC Design Strengths, and Test Data
The design strength capacities (Rn) of the ten rigid steel connections were calculated following
the requirements of AISC Specification for Structural Steel Buildings (AISC 360, 2016) and AISC
Steel Construction Manual (AISC Manual, 2017). The smallest calculated strengths were
determined, and the moment capacities of the connections were obtained corresponding these
controlling strengths.

62
The same specimens were modeled in IDEA StatiCa and analyzed under a shear force applied
117.5 in. away from the column centerline. The shear force was increased incrementally until the
connections reached their capacities. The moment capacities of the connections were obtained by
multiplying by the distance between where the shear force was applied, and the ultimate shear
force reached in the incremental loading. The results are compared in Table 3.10.
Table 3.10: Comparison of the moment capacities of the specimens calculated from AISC design
equations and IDEA StatiCa

IDEA StatiCa
AISC Design
Specimen Analysis, Moment
Strength Moment
Number Capacities
Capacities (kips-in.)
(kips-in.)
BFP 14,481.98 17,164.25
Model 1 14,481.98 17,048.88
Model 2 14,481.98 17,040.00
Model 3 14,481.98 17,057.75
Model 4 20,395.83 17,785.50
Model 5 19,954.78 17,821.00
Model 6 14,250.86 15,921.75
Model 7 11,628.93 11,360.00
Model 8 14,481.98 16,330.00
Model 9 8,852.351 10,827.50

The moment-rotation relationship of the Test No. BFP was calculated from IDEA StatiCa analysis
using the mean values of material properties of the tested specimens measured in the experimental
study and compared with the moment-rotation relationship obtained during static loading provided
in the test report (Figure 3.14).

Figure 3.14: Comparison of the moment-rotation relationships of Test No. BFP measured during the
experiment and calculated from IDEA StatiCa (blue line)
63
3.6.3 Comparison of IDEA StatiCa and ABAQUS Results

The comparison between the IDEA StatiCa and ABAQUS results were summarized in Tables
3.11-3.13. As shown in Figure 3.12 and Tables 3.11-3.13, there was a good agreement between
the results of the two software packages. The stress distributions on the beam and column were
very close. However, slightly higher stresses were predicted on the column, plate 1, and stiffeners
in the ABAQUS model which is most likely due to the nature of the tie constraint. The predicted
load on the bolts and weld groups were also very close between the two software. Stress
distribution for each part can be seen in Appendix L.

64
Table 3.11. Specified yield strengths and calculated stress, strain, and plates check status
IDEA StatiCa ABAQUS
𝑭𝒚 𝝈𝑬𝒅 𝜺𝒑𝒍 Check 𝑭𝒚 𝝈𝑬𝒅 𝜺𝒑𝒍 Check
Item Item
(𝒌𝒔𝒊) (𝒌𝒔𝒊) (%) Status (𝒌𝒔𝒊) (𝒌𝒔𝒊) (%) Status
C-bfl 1 50.0 37.4 0 Ok
C-tfl 1 50.0 24.5 0 Ok Column 50 44.995 0 Ok
C-w 1 50.0 32.9 0 Ok
B-bfl 1 50.0 45.3 1.0 Ok
B-tfl 1 50.0 46.4 5.0 Ok Beam 50 44.995 3.9 Ok
B- w 1 50.0 45.1 0.5 Ok
STIFF
50.0 19.5 0.0 Ok Back “bottom stiffener” 50 26.618 0 Ok
1a
STIFF
50.0 19.5 0.0 Ok Front “bottom stiffener” 50 26.531 0 Ok
1b
FP 1 50.0 39.6 0.0 Ok Plate 1 50 44.995 0.2 Ok
FP 2 50.0 45.1 0.2 Ok Plate 2 50 44.995 0.4 Ok
FP 3 50.0 45.1 0.2 Ok Plate 3 50 44.995 0.5 Ok
STIFF
50.0 19.2 0.0 Ok Back “top stiffener” 50 31.836 0 Ok
2a
STIFF
50.0 19.1 0.0 Ok Front “top stiffener” 50 31.736 0 Ok
2b

65
Table 3.12. Calculated tension force, shear force, and bolt bearing resistance
IDEA StatiCa ABAQUS
𝑭𝒕 𝑽 ∅𝑹𝒏,𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑼𝒕𝒕 𝑼𝒕𝒔 𝑭𝒕 𝑽 ∅𝑹𝒏,𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑼𝒕𝒕 𝑼𝒕𝒔
Item
(𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (%) (%) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (%) (%)
B1 1.234 10.277 32.906 4.1 45.6 1.156 9.956 34.551 3.6 40.2
B2 0.839 7.145 32.906 2.8 31.7 0.742 6.821 34.551 2.3 27.6
B3 0.412 3.732 32.906 1.4 16.6 0.445 3.863 34.551 1.4 15.6
B4 0.088 0.230 32.906 0.3 1.0 0.132 0.228 34.551 0.4 1.0
B5 0.657 3.156 24.018 2.2 14.0 0.698 3.191 34.551 2.2 12.9
B6 1.292 6.400 24.046 4.3 28.4 1.305 6.556 34.551 3.9 26.5
B7 1.874 6.400 24.072 4.3 28.4 1.945 6.674 34.551 6.0 27.0
B8 2.773 11.864 24.087 9.3 52.6 2.669 11.772 34.551 8.2 47.5
B9
11.318 35.808 63.899 17.0 72.4 11.058 35.995 93.3471 16.7 72.9
(IDEA B29)
B10
11.140 35.625 63.899 16.7 72.0 11.015 35.995 93.3471 16.6 72.9
(IDEA B36)
B11
3.800 36.199 83.345 5.7 73.2 3.745 36.124 93.3471 5.7 43.2
(IDEA B28)
B12
3.469 36.057 83.345 5.2 72.9 3.562 36.325 93.3471 5.4 73.6
(IDEA B35)
B13
3.071 35.761 83.345 4.6 72.3 3.234 36.034 93.3471 4.9 73.0
(IDEA B27)
B14
2.757 35.688 83.345 4.1 72.1 2.945 35.956 93.3471 4.5 72.8
(IDEA B34)
B15
2.345 35.605 83.345 3.5 72.0 2.567 35.945 93.3471 3.9 72.8
(IDEA B23)
B16
2.203 35.572 83.345 3.3 71.9 2.456 35.857 93.3471 3.7 72.6
(IDEA B30)
B17
2.802 35.943 83.345 4.2 72.7 2.935 36.234 93.3471 4.5 73.4
(IDEA B24)
B18
2.722 35.934 83.345 4.1 72.6 2.845 36.145 93.3471 4.3 73.2
(IDEA B31)
B19
5.883 36.820 83.345 8.8 74.4 5.994 36.945 93.3471 9.1 74.8
(IDEA B25)
B20
5.862 36.820 83.345 8.8 74.4 5.905 36.94 93.3471 8.9 74.8
(IDEA B32)
B21
14.770 38.300 83.345 22.2 77.4 14.95 38.54 93.3471 22.5 78.1
(IDEA B26)
B22
14.770 38.310 83.345 22.2 77.4 14.95 38.54 93.3471 22.5 78.1
(IDEA B33)
B23
0.645 35.969 83.345 1.0 72.7 0.539 36.836 93.3471 0.9 74.6
(IDEA B57)
B24
0.660 35.892 83.345 1.0 72.6 0.634 36.12 93.3471 1 73.2
(IDEA B64)
B25
1.419 35.547 83.345 2.1 71.9 1.525 35.445 93.3471 2.3 71.8
(IDEA B56)

66
 B26
1.472 35.501 83.345 2.2 71.8 1.59 35.966 93.3471 2.4 72.9
(IDEA B63)
B27
1.493 35.320 83.345 2.2 71.4 1.609 35.82 93.3471 2.5 72.6
(IDEA B55)
B28
1.536 35.312 83.345 2.3 71.4 1.635 35.745 93.3471 2.5 72.4
(IDEA B62)
B29
1.390 35.729 83.345 2.1 72.2 1.456 36.09 93.3471 2.2 73.1
(IDEA B51)
B30
1.418 35.743 83.345 2.1 72.3 1.467 36.09 93.3471 2.3 73.1
(IDEA B58)
B31
1.730 36.850 83.345 2.6 74.5 1.837 36.935 93.3471 2.8 74.8
(IDEA B52)
B32
1.732 36.877 83.345 2.6 74.5 1.845 36.894 93.3471 2.8 74.7
(IDEA B59)
B33
1.320 38.689 83.345 2.0 78.2 1.421 38.562 93.3471 2.2 78.1
(IDEA B53)
B34
1.340 38.742 83.345 2.0 78.3 1.456 38.63 93.3471 2.2 78.2
(IDEA B60)
B35
10.395 40.663 83.345 15.6 82.2 10.123 41.345 93.3471 15.3 83.7
(IDEA B54)
B36
10.398 40.682 83.345 15.6 82.2 10.141 41.366 93.347 15.3 83.8
(IDEA B61)

67
Table 3.13. Calculated force in weld critical element, weld resistance, and welds check status
IDEA StatiCa ABAQUS
𝑭𝒏 ∅𝑹𝒏 𝑼𝒕 𝑭𝒏 ∅𝑹𝒏 𝑼𝒕
Item Edge Status Status
(𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (%) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (𝒌𝒊𝒑𝒔) (%)
11.900 15.370 77.4 OK 12.856 16.238 79.2 OK
C-bfl 1 STIFF1a
12.123 15.414 78.6 OK 12.959 16.238 79.8 OK
6.939 12.317 56.3 OK 7.234 14.235 50.8 OK
C-w 1 STIFF1a
6.613 12.423 53.2 OK 7.129 14.235 50.1 OK
6.206 13.375 46.4 OK 6.945 15.238 45.6 OK
C-tfl 1 STIFF1a
5.790 13.171 44.0 OK 6.536 15.238 42.9 OK
12.113 15.415 78.6 OK 13.532 16.235 83.4 OK
C-bfl 1 STIFF1b
11.907 15.371 77.5 OK 13.134 16.235 80.9 OK
6.598 12.427 53.1 OK 7.452 13.532 55.1 OK
C-w 1 STIFF1b
6.937 12.314 56.3 OK 7.848 13.532 58.0 OK
5.787 13.172 43.9 OK 5.994 14.235 42.1 OK
C-tfl 1 STIFF1b
6.207 13.381 46.4 OK 6.345 14.235 44.6 OK
8.010 11.942 67.1 OK 8.556 12.265 69.8 OK
C-bfl 1 FP1
6.915 11.855 58.3 OK 7.456 12.265 60.8 OK
12.073 15.409 78.4 OK 12.768 17.238 74.1 OK
C-bfl 1 STIFF12a
11.859 15.359 77.2 OK 12.568 17.238 73.0 Ok
6.534 12.406 52.7 OK 6.876 14.235 48.3 OK
C-w 1 STIFF2a
6.717 12.349 54.4 OK 6.978 14.235 49.0 OK
5.761 13.260 43.4 OK 6.125 16.238 37.7 OK
C-tfl 1 STIFF2a
6.053 13.346 45.4 OK 6.532 16.238 40.2 OK
11.867 15.360 77.3 OK 12.452 17.265 72.1 OK
C-bfl 1 STIFF12b
12.054 15.410 78.2 OK 12.645 17.265 73.2 OK
6.717 12.343 54.4 OK 6.883 14.235 48.4 OK
C-w 1 STIFF2b
6.508 12.416 52.4 OK 6.475 14.235 45.5 OK
6.051 13.364 45.3 OK 6.73 16.238 41.5 OK
C-tfl 1 STIFF2b
5.760 13.255 43.5 OK 6.134 16.238 37.8 OK

68
CHAPTER 4 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS

IDEA StatiCa is a component-based finite element analysis (FEA) software package for steel
connection design. It can be used for structural evaluation or design of a variety of welded and
bolted structural steel connections and base plates. The main objective of this report was to verify
the FEA results obtained from the IDEA StatiCa software package for three types of steel
connections commonly used in the United States (i.e., simple, semi-rigid, and rigid) according to
the U.S. building codes. Measured experimental response was available for the connection
specimens selected for verification purposes in this study. For each connection type and ten
variations of that, first, the code checks and calculations were performed following the
requirements of the AISC 360, Specification for Structural Steel Building (2016), and AISC Steel
Construction Manual (2017) codes. Then, the results were compared with the IDEA StatiCa
predictions. Additionally, the results from the IDEA StatiCa were compared with ABAQUS,
which is another robust FEA code in the market. Measured responses of the test specimens were
also used to compare and better understand the overall behavior and failure mode of connection
models.
In general, there was good agreement between the IDEA StatiCa results, code-checks according
to the U.S. codes, and the ABAQUS results. The calculated results are different than those obtained
with IDEA StatiCa possibly because AISC is a design code and may be conservative while the
software is intended to capture the real behavior which is expected to be more accurate.
While there are many FEA software packages in the market capable of predicting the overall
structural response to a variety of loading conditions, there is a lack of specialized FEA tools with
a focus on connection design. Compared to other FEA software packages in the market, IDEA
StatiCa software has many advantages. In addition to the ease of use, the most important
characteristic of IDEA StatiCa was found to be the computational time in which the results can be
obtained in a fraction of time compared to the conventional FEA codes such as ABAQUS. This
will help the engineers to evaluate and modify their preliminary connection design faster and in a
more efficient way if any changes are required. In addition, in common FEA software packages,
the loads and capacities of the connection members (i.e., bolts, welds, plates) should be extracted
from the model during the post-processing stage which is a cumbersome and time-consuming task.
However, in IDEA StatiCa, the results are directly calculated and reported. Also, in IDEA StatiCa,
load can be directly applied at any locations/members of the connection, while in typical FEA
codes this should be done through defining the reference point and then coupling it with the
connection which is an extra step.
A minor discrepancy, however, was found where the contacts defined between the plates and
column/beam faces, although the same type of analysis was performed, i.e., small deformation.
This could be due to the differences between solid elements and shell elements or contact
algorithm(s) that are used in two software. Also, the way that IDEA StatiCa code calculates and
utilizes the optimum element size was not clear. Additionally, due to the recommended plastic
strain limit of 5% by Eurocode (EN1993-1-5 app. C par. C8 note 1) which is defined as a default
value in the IDEA StaiCa software, different failure modes were observed.
Because of IDEA StatiCa’s fast and easy connection modeling and analysis capabilities,
complicated nonlinear modeling and time-consuming dynamic analysis of large steel structures
can be performed relatively quickly. Properties of the connections in beam-column frame
69
structures can be defined based on the analysis and design checks completed in IDEA StatiCa.
Then, the connection model can be revised and re-analyzed if necessary after the frame analysis is
completed using a structural analysis software, e.g., SAP2000. The connections can be made
weaker or stronger in IDEA StatiCa depending on the desired optimum performance of the
structural frame model. An easy and more robust approach to develop connection moment-rotation
response in IDEA StatiCa will be very helpful because in programs like SAP2000 moment-rotation
response of connections need to be defined as part of modeling of frame structures.
IDEA StatiCa software is only as good as its Graphical User Interface. If the GUI is not well
executed, users will have trouble with using the application or the software. IDEA StatiCa design
it well. Along with a good GUI — the quality of the software is also observed. Following a set of
conventions or standards ensures consistency and makes it easy for users to navigate in the
software. A standard and consistent language ensures users will understand terms when they see
them. Models are easily modified, allowing fast variable exploration and checking.
The software consistently updates including faster load times, and even bug fixes to improve the
overall user experience.

70
References
[1] AISC (2016). “Specification for Structural Steel Buildings,” American Institute of Steel
Construction ANSI/AISC 360-16, Chicago, Illinois.

[2] AISC (2017). “Steel Construction Manual,” 15th edition, American Institute of Steel
Construction, Chicago, Illinois.

[3] McMullin, K. M., & Astaneh-Asl, A. (1988). Analytical and experimental studies of double-
angle framing connections. Structural Engineering, Mechanics, and Materials, Department of
Civil Engineering, University of California, Berkeley.

[4] ABAQUS 2020, Dassault Systemes Simulia Corporation, Providence, RI, USA.

[5] IDEA StatiCa s.r.o., Sumavska 519/35, Brno, 602 00 Czech Republic;
https://www.ideastatica.com/support-center/general-theoretical-background

[6] Azizinamini, A., Bradburn, J. H., and Radziminski, J. B. (1985). Static and cyclic behavior of
semi-rigid steel beam-column connections. University of South Carolina.

[7] Sato, A., Newell, J., and Uang, C. M. (2007). Cyclic testing of bolted flange plate steel moment
connections for special moment frames. Final Repor to American Institute of Steel
Construction.

71
Appendix A. LRFD Strength Calculations for Simple Bolted-to-Beam and
Welded-to-Column Connection Test Specimen (Test No. 4)

A.1 Loading and Assumptions

During testing of connection specimen Test No. 4, a setup was used to prevent moment in the
beam and allow unrestrained rotation of the beam at the connection as much as possible (see Figure
1.1 and Figure A.1 below). Therefore, for design calculations in this Appendix, it is assumed that
the simple or pin connection specimens, including Test No. 4 in this appendix, the double angle
connection carries the applied shear force, and no moment is carried by the simple connection.

It is assumed that the following dead and live loads are applied at the tip of the cantilever.

PD = 30 kips (dead load)

PL = 35 kips (live load)

A.1.1 LRFD Load Demand or Design Loads

According to the Load and Resistance Factored Design (LRFD) procedure (AISC 360-16 or AISC
Manual 2017), LRFD design load, factored load or demand, Pu under gravity loads is:

Pu = 1.2PD + 1.6PL (LRFD)

Pu = 1.2·(30 kips) + 1.6·(35 kips) = 92 kips (LRFD)

Then, the required strength, Ru using the LRFD load combinations will be set equal to the design
shear force, Vu applied on the connection. Then, for the cantilever beam and connection specimen:

Ru = Vu = Pu = 1.2PD + 1.6PL (LRFD)

A.1.2 LRFD Strength Requirements

Design is performed according to the LRFD design equation below.

Ru ≤ Rn

where:

• Ru = required strength using LRFD load combinations (calculated in Section A.1.1)

• Rn = nominal strength (e.g., Vn for shear design, or Mn for flexural design)
•  = resistance factor (or strength reduction factor;   1.0)
• Rn = design strength, reduced strength, or factored strength (e.g., Vn for shear design, or
Mn for flexural design)

72
A.2 Properties of Test Specimen (Test No. 4)

For the following analysis, consider:

o tw = web thickness of beam

o d = depth of beam
o T = clear distance between web fillets
o k = distance from outer face of flange to web tow of fillet
o Fy = specified minimum yield strength
o Fu = specified minimum tensile strength
o tf = flange thickness of column
o L= length of the double angles

• Beam: W24x68
o Specified minimum yield strength, Fy = 50ksi ASTM A992
o Specified minimum tensile strength, Fu = 65 ksi ASTM A992
o Web thickness of beam, tw = 0.415 in.
o Depth of beam, d = 23.7 in.
o Clear distance between web fillets, T = 20.75 in.
o Distance from outer face of flange to web tow of fillet, k = 11/16 in. (Table 1-1, AISC
Manual, 2017)

• Column: W10x77
o Specified minimum yield strength, Fy = 50ksi ASTM A992
o Specified minimum tensile strength, Fu = 65 ksi ASTM A992
o Flange thickness of column, tf = 0.87 in. (Table 1-1, AISC Manual)

• Double angles: 4 x 3½ x 3/8

ASTM A36 Fy = 36 ksi Fu = 58 ksi
o Length of the double angles, L= 20.5 in.
• Number of bolts: seven
• Diameter of bolts: ¾ in.
• Type of bolts: A325-X (threads are excluded)
• Weld size: ¼ in. welding with E70XX electrode

Figure A.1: (a) Test setup, and (b) connection detail of Test No. 4 (McMullin and
Astaneh, 1988)
73
A.3 Geometric Checks

For the following analysis, consider:

o w = weld size
o wmax= maximum weld size
o wmin= minimum weld size
o Lw= weld length
o tang = angle thickness
o Lmin = minimum angle length
o Lmax = maximum angle length
o Lemin = minimum edge distance
o Lev = vertical edge distance of angle
o Leh = horizontal edge distance of angle
o Lsvmin = minimum vertical center to center bolt distance
o Lsv = vertical center to center bolt distance
o Lsmax = maximum center to center bolt distance
o Lwmin = minimum weld length
o d = bolt diameter
o T= clear distance between web fillets of the beam
A.3.1 Angle Thickness

w < tang - 1/16 in. (Section J2.2b, AISC 360-16)

• tang ≥ w + 1/16 in.

• tang ≥ 1/4 in. + 1/16 in.
• tang = 3/8 in. ≥ 5/16 in. OK
where
w = 1/4-in. – weld size
tang = 3/8 in. – angle thickness

A.3.2 Angle Length

Lmin = T/2 (Page 10-9, AISC Manual)

• Lmin = (20.75 in.)/2 = 10.38 in.

• L = 20.5 in. ≥ Lmin = (20.75 in.)/2 = 10.375 in. OK
Lmax = T (Page 10-9, AISC Manual)

• Lmax = 20.75 in.

• L = 20.5 in. ≤ Lmax = 20.75 in. OK
where
74
T = 20.75 in. – clear distance between web fillets of the beam
Lmin = 10.38 in. – minimum angle length
Lmax = 20.75 in. – maximum angle length

A.3.3 Angle Edge Distance Check

Lemin = 1 in. for bolt diameter of ¾ in. (Table J3.4, AISC 360-16)

• Lev = 1.25 in. > Lemin = 1 in. OK

• Leh = 1.25 in. > Lemin = 1 in. OK
where
• Lemin = 1 in. – minimum edge distance
• Lev = 1.25 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Leh = 1.25 in. – horizontal edge distance of angle
A.3.4 Angle Bolt Spacing Check

Lsvmin = (8/3)·d (Section J3.3, AISC 360-16)

• Lsvmin = (8/3)·(¾ in.)

• Lsvmin = 2 in.
• Lsv = 3 in. > Lsvmin = 2 in. OK
Lsmax = minimum of (24·tang) and 12 in. (Section J3.5, AISC 360-16)

• Lsmax = 24·(0.375 in.)

• Lsmax = 9 in.
• Lsv = 3 in. < Lsmax = 9 in. OK
where:
Lsvmin = 2 in. - minimum vertical center to center bolt distance
Lsv = 3 in. - vertical center to center bolt distance
Lsmax = 9 in. - maximum center to center bolt distance
d = ¾ in. - bolt diameter

A.3.5 Weld Size Check

wmax = tang - 1/16 in. (Section J2.2b, AISC 360-16)

• wmax = 0.375 in. - 1/16 in.

• wmax = 0.31 in.
• w = 0.25 in. < wmax = 0.31 in. OK
wmin = 0.19 in. for tang = 3/8 in. (Table J2.4, AISC 360-16)

75
 • w = 0.25 in. > wmin = 0.19 in. OK
where:
• w = ¼ in. – weld size
• wmax = 0.31 in. – maximum weld size
• wmin = 0.19 in. – minimum weld size
• tang = 3/8 in. – angle thickness
A.3.6 Weld Length Check

Lwmin = 4·w (Section J2.2b, AISC 360-16)

• Lwmin = 4·0.25 in.

• Lwmin = 1 in.
• Lw = 20.5 in. > Lwmin = 1 in.
where:
• Lwmin = 1 in. – minimum weld length
• Lw = 20.5 in. – weld length

A.4 LRFD Design Checks

In this section, design of welds, angles, bolts, and beam are checked. The LRFD design strength
Rn is calculated following the requirements of AISC Construction Manual (2017) and AISC 360-
16. The calculated design strength Rn is then compared with the design demand Ru calculated
from structural analysis using the factored external loads.

For bolts, shear, tensile bearing and tearout failure limit states are checked in Sections A.4.1
through A.4.4.

For angles, bearing, tearout, rupture, block shear, and yielding limit states are checked (Section
A.4.5 through A.4.9).

For beam, yielding is checked (Section A.4.10).

For welding, rupture and available strength are checked (Section A.4.11 and A.4.13).

For the following analysis, consider:

• Rn = Shear strength of one bolt

• Rn =Total shear strength of seven bolts double angle
• Fnv = nominal shear strength of fasteners (Table J3.2, AISC 360-16)
• Ab = nominal bolt area
•  = strength factor (LRFD)
76
 • Fnt = nominal tensile strength of fasteners (Table J3.2, AISC 360-16)
• Ab = nominal bolt area
• d = nominal bolt diameter
• t = thickness of the beam
• Fu = specified minimum tensile strength of beam
• lc = clear distance
• dh = nominal hole dimension
• Lsv = vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lev = vertical edge distance of angle
• Lcsv = clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = clear vertical edge distance
• Fu = specified minimum tensile strength of angle
• Anv = net area subject to shear, in.2
• Lh = hole dimension for tension and shear net area
• Le = effective length
• n = number of the bolts
• Ubs = Stress index for uniform tension stress
• Ant = net area subject to tension
• Agv = gross area subject to shear
• Anv = net area subject to shear
• Lev = vertical edge distance of angle
• Leh = horizontal edge distance of angle
• D = number of sixteenths-of-an-inch in the weld size
• L = length of the angles
• e = width of the leg of the angle
• FEXX = electrode classification number
A.4.1 Bolt Shear Check

Rn = ·Fn·Ab (Eq. J3-1, AISC 360-16)

• Shear strength of one bolt:

• Rn = 0.75·68·0.442 = 22.54 kips/bolt
• Total shear strength of seven bolts double angle:
• Rn = 2 x 7 x 22.54 kips = 315.6 kips > 92 kips OK
where:

• Fnv = 68 ksi – nominal shear strength of fasteners (Table J3.2, AISC 360-16)
• Ab = 0.442 in.2 – nominal bolt area
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)

77
A.4.2 Bolt Tensile Check

Rn = ·Fn·Ab (Eq. J3-1, AISC 360-16)

• Tension strength of one bolt:

• Rn = 0.75·90·0.442 = 29.84 kips/bolt
• Total tension strength of seven bolts double angle:
• Rn = 2 x 7 x 29.84 kips = 417.8 kips

where:

• Fnt = 90 ksi – nominal tensile strength of fasteners (Table J3.2, AISC 360-16)
• Ab = 0.442 in.2 – nominal bolt area
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
A.4.3 Bolt Bearing on Beam

rn = 2.4·d·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

• rn =2.4·(3/4 in.)·(0.415 in.)·(65 ksi)

• rn = 48.56 kips/bolt
• Rn = 0.75·(7 bolts)·48.56 kips
• Rn = 254.9 kips > 92 kips OK
where:

• d = 3/4 in. – nominal bolt diameter

• t = 0.415 in. – thickness of the beam
• Fu = 65 ksi – specified minimum tensile strength of beam
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
A.4.4 Bolt Tearout on Beam

The available tearout strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 1.2·lc·t ·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)

• Lcsv = 3 in. - 13/16 in. = 2.19 in.

• Lcev = [23.7 in. - 6·(3 in.) - (13/16) in.]/2 = 2.44 in.
• Rn-span = 1.2·(2.19 in.)·(0.415 in.)·(65 ksi)
• Rn-span = 70.89 kips/bolt
• Rn-end = 1.2·(2.44 in.)·(0.415 in.)·(65 ksi)
• Rn-end = 78.98 kips/bolt
• Rn = 0.75·[6·(70.89 kips) + (78.98 kips)] = 378.2 kips > 92 kips OK

78
where:

• lc : clear distance
• dh = 13/16 in. – nominal hole dimension (3/4-in.-diameter bolt)
• Lsv = 3 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lev = 1.25 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Lcsv = 2.19 in. – clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = 2.44 in. – clear vertical edge distance
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
A.4.5 Bolt Bearing on Angles

The nominal bearing strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 2.4·d·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

• Rn =2.4·(3/4 in.)·(3/8 in.)·(58 ksi)

• Rn = 39.15 kips/bolt
• Rn = 0.75·(2 angles)·(7 bolts)·39.15 kips
• Rn = 411.1 kips > 92 kips OK
where:

• d = 3/4 in. – nominal bolt diameter

• t = 3/8 in. – thickness of angle
• Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile strength of angle
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
A.4.6 Bolt Tearout on Angles

The available tearout strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 1.2·lc·t ·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)

• Lcsv = Lsv - dh
• Lcsv = 3 in. - 13/16 in. = 2.19 in.
• Rn-span = 1.2·(2.19 in.)·(3/8 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-span = 57.16 kips/bolt
• Lcev = Lev - dh /2
• Lcev = 1.25 in. - (13/16)/2 in. = 0.84 in.
• Rn-end = 1.2·(0.84 in.)·(3/8 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-end = 21.92 kips/bolt
• Rn = 0.75·(2 angles)·[ 6·(57.16 kips) + (21.92 kips)] = 547.3 kips > 92 kips OK
79
where:

• lc : clear distance
• dh = 13/16 in. - nominal hole dimension (3/4-in.-diameter bolt)
• Lsv = 3 in. - vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lev = 1.25 in. - vertical edge distance of angle
• Lcsv = 2.19 in. - clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = 0.84 in. - clear vertical edge distance
•  = 0.75 - strength factor (LRFD)
A.4.7 Shear Rupture on Angles (Beam Side)

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-4)

• Lh = dh + 1/16 (Section B4-3b, AISC Manual)

• Lh = 0.813 + 1/16 = 0.875 in.
• Le = L - n·Lh
• Le = 20.5 - 7·0.875 = 14.375 in.
• Anv = Le·tp
• Anv = (14.375 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 5.39 in.2
• Rn = (0.75)·(2 angles)·0.60·(58 kips)·(5.39 in.2)
• Rn = 281.4 kips > 92 kips OK
where:

• Anv = 5.39 in.2 - net area subject to shear, in.2

• Lh = 0.875 in. - hole dimension for tension and shear net area
• Le = 14.375 in. - effective length
•  = 0.75 - strength factor (LRFD)
• n=7 - number of the bolts
A.4.8 Block Shear on Angles (Beam Side)

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-5)

• Agv = (L-Lev)·(tp)
• Agv = (2 angles)·(20.5 in. - 1.25 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 14.44 in.2
• Anv = Agv - (2 angles)·(n-0.5)·(dh + 1/16 in.)·(tp)
• Anv = 14.44 in.2 - (2 angles)·(7-0.5)·(0.813 + 1/16 in.)·(0.375 in.)
• Anv = 10.17 in.2
• Ant = (2 angles)·[Leh - 0.5·( dh + 1/16 in.)]·(tp)
• Ant = (2 angles)·[1.25 in. - 0.5·(0.813 in. + 1/16 in.)]·(0.375 in.)
• Ant = 0.61 in.2
• Ubs = 1 (as the tension stress is uniform)
80
 • Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant
• Rn = 0.60·(58 kips/in.2)·(10.17 in.2) + 1·(58 kips/in.2)·(0.61 in.2) ≤ 0.60·(36 kips/in.2)·(14.44
in.2) + 1·(58 kips/in.2)·(0.61 in.2)
• Rn = 389.3 kips ≤ 347.3 kips
• Rn = 0.75·(347.3 kips)
• Rn = 260.5 kips > 92 kips OK
where:

• Ubs = 1 – Stress index for uniform tension stress

• Ant = 0.61 in.2 – net area subject to tension
• Agv = 14.44 in.2 – gross area subject to shear
• Anv = 10.17 in.2 – net area subject to shear
• Lev = 1.25 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Leh = 1.25 in. – horizontal edge distance of angle
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
A.4.9 Shear Yielding on Angles

Rn = 0.60·Fy·Agv  = 1.00 (LRFD) (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-3)

• Agv = (20.5 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 7.69 in.2

• Rn = 1.00·(2 angles) 0.60·(36 kips)·( 7.69 in.2)
• Rn = 332.21 kips > 92 kips OK
where:

• Agv = 7.69 in.2 - gross area subject to shear

•  = 1.00 - strength factor (LRFD)
A.4.10 Shear Yielding on Beam

Rn = 0.60·Fy·Agv (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-3)

• Agv = (23.7 in.)·(0.415 in.) = 9.84 in.2

• Rn = 1.00·0.60·(50 kips)·( 9.84 in.2)
• Rn = 295.2 kips > 92 kips OK
where:

• Agv = 9.84 in.2 – gross area subject to shear, in.2

•  = 1.00 – strength factor (LRFD)
A.4.11 Weld Rupture on Angles (Support side)

tmin = [0.6·(FEXX)·(21/2/2)·(D/16)] / [0.6·(Fu)] (Page 9-5, AISC Manual)

81
 • tmin = [0.6·(70 ksi)·(21/2/2)·(4/16)] / [0.6·(58)]
• tmin = 0.21 in. < tf = 0.87 in. OK
where:

• D=4 – number of sixteenths-of-an-inch in the weld size

• Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile strength of the connecting element
• FEXX = 70 ksi – electrode classification number
A.4.12 Weld Capacity

Rn = (0.75)·2 [(FEXX)·0.6·(D/16)·L·(21/2/2) / (1 + 12.96·e2/L2)1/2] (Page 10-11, AISC Manual)

• Rn = 2 [(1.392·D·L) / (1 + 12.96·e2/L2)1/2]

• Rn = 2 [(1.392·4·20.5) / (1 + 12.96·42/20.52)1/2]
• Rn = 186.8 kips > 92 kips OK
where:

• D=4 – number of sixteenths-of-an-inch in the weld size

• L = 20.5 in. – length of the angles
• e=4 – width of the leg of the angle
• FEXX = 70 ksi – filler metal electrode classification strength
A.4.13 Weld Capacity (no eccentricity)
Rn = Fnw·Awe (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-2)

• Fnw = 0.60·(FEXX)·(1.0+0.50 sin(θ)1.5) = 0.60·70 ksi = 42 ksi (It is assumed that θ = 0)

• 1/2 1/2
Awe = (D/16)·L·(2 /2) = (4/16)·(20.5 in.)·(2 /2) = 3.62 in. 2

• Rn = (0.75)·(42 ksi)·( 3.62 in.2) = 114.0 kips (for one angle)
• Rn = (2 angles)·(114.0 kips) = 228.0 kips > 92 kips OK (for double angle)
where:

• D=4 – number of sixteenths-of-an-inch in the weld size

• L = 20.5 in. – length of the angles
• e=4 – width of the leg of the angle
• FEXX = 70 ksi – filler metal electrode classification strength
• Fnw = 42 ksi – nominal stress of the weld metal
• Awe = 3.62 in.2 – effective area of the weld
• θ=0 – angle between the line of action of the required force and the weld
longitudinal axis, degree

82
Appendix B. ASD Strength Calculations for Connection Specimen Test No. 4

B.1 Connection Properties, Loading and Assumptions

The properties of connection specimen Test No. 4 and geometric checks according to AISC code
are provided in Appendix A. Appendix B includes only the strength calculations and checks
following the requirements of AISC Allowable Strength Design (ASD).

It is assumed that the following dead and live loads are applied at the tip of the cantilever specimen
Test No. 4 (see Figure 1.1 and Figure A.1 in Appendix A).

PD = 30 kips (dead load)

PL = 35 kips (live load)

B.1.1 ASD Load Demand or Design Loads

According the ASD procedure (AISC 360-16 or AISC Manual 2017), ASD design load, factored
load or demand, Pa under gravity loads is:

Pa = PD + PL (ASD)

Pa = 30 kips + 35 kips = 65 kips (ASD)

Then, the required strength, Ra using the ASD load combinations will be set equal to the design
shear force, Va applied on the connection. Then, for the cantilever beam and connection specimen:

Ra = Va = Pa = PD + PL (ASD)

B.1.2 ASD Strength Requirements

Design is performed according to the ASD design equation below.

Ra ≤ Rn/Ω

where:

• Ra = required strength using ASD load combinations (calculated in Section B.1.1)

• Ra = nominal strength (e.g., Va for shear design, or Ma for flexural design)
• Ω = safety factor (Ω ≥ 1.0)
• Rn/Ω = design strength (e.g., Vn/Ω for shear design, or Mn/Ω for flexural design)

83
B.2 ASD Design Checks

B.2.1 Bolt Shear Check

Rn/Ω = Fn·Ab/Ω (Eq. J3-1, AISC 360-16)

• Shear strength of one bolt:

• Rn/Ω = 68·0.442 / 2 = 15.03 kips/bolt
• Total shear strength of seven bolts double angle:
• Rn/Ω = 2·7·15.03 kips = 210.42 kips > 65 kips OK
where:

• Fnv = 68 ksi – nominal shear strength of fasteners (Table J3.2, AISC 360-16)
• Ab = 0.442 in.2 – nominal bolt area
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
B.2.2 Bolt Tensile Check

Rn/Ω = Fn·Ab/Ω (Eq. J3-1, AISC 360-16)

• Tension strength of one bolt:

• Rn/Ω = 90·0.442 / 2 = 19.89 kips/bolt
• Total tension strength of seven bolts double angle:
• Rn/Ω = 2·7·19.89 kips = 278.46 kips
where:

• Fnt = 90 ksi – nominal tensile strength of fasteners (Table J3.2, AISC 360-16)
• Ab = 0.442 in.2 – nominal bolt area
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
B.2.3 Bolt Bearing on Beam

Rn/Ω = 2.4·d·t·Fu/Ω (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

• Rn/Ω =2.4·(3/4 in.)·(0.415 in.)·(65 ksi) / 2

• Rn/Ω = 24.28 kips/bolt
• Rn/Ω = (7 bolts)·24.28 kips
• Rn/Ω = 169.96 kips > 65 kips OK
where:

• d = 3/4 in. – nominal bolt diameter

• t = 0.415 in. – thickness of the beam
• Fu = 65 ksi – specified minimum tensile strength of beam
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
84
B.2.4 Bolt Tearout on Beam

The available tearout strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn/Ω = 1.2·lc·t ·Fu/Ω (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)

• Lcsv = 3 in. - 13/16 in. = 2.19 in.

• Lcev = [23.7 in. - 6·(3 in.) - (13/16) in.]/2 = 2.44 in.
• Rn-span = 1.2·(2.19 in.)·(0.415 in.)·(65 ksi)
• Rn-span = 70.89 kips/bolt
• Rn-end = 1.2·(2.44 in.)·(0.415 in.)·(65 ksi)
• Rn-end = 78.98 kips/bolt
• Rn/Ω = [6·(70.89 kips) + (78.98 kips)] / 2 = 252.16 kips > 65 kips OK
where:

• lc : clear distance
• dh = 13/16 in. – nominal hole dimension (3/4-in.-diameter bolt)
• Lsv = 3 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lev = 1.25 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Lcsv = 2.19 in. – clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = 2.44 in. – clear vertical edge distance
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
B.2.5 Bolt Bearing on Angles

The nominal bearing strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn/Ω = 2.4·d·t·Fu/Ω (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

• Rn/Ω =2.4·(3/4 in.)·(3/8 in.)·(58 ksi) / 2

• Rn/Ω = 19.58 kips/bolt
• Rn/Ω = (2 angles)·(7 bolts)·19.58 kips
• Rn/Ω = 274.12 kips > 65 kips OK
where:

• d = 3/4 in. – nominal bolt diameter

• t = 3/8 in. – thickness of angle
• Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile strength of angle
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)

85
B.2.6 Bolt Tearout on Angles

The available tearout strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn/Ω = 1.2·lc·t ·Fu/Ω (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)

• Lcsv = Lsv - dh
• Lcsv = 3 in. - 13/16 in. = 2.19 in.
• Rn-span = 1.2·(2.19 in.)·(3/8 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-span = 57.16 kips/bolt
• Lcev = Lev - dh /2
• Lcev = 1.25 in. - (13/16)/2 in. = 0.84 in.
• Rn-end = 1.2·(0.84 in.)·(3/8 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-end = 21.92 kips/bolt
• Rn/Ω = (2 angles)·[ 6·(57.16 kips) + (21.92 kips)] / 2 = 364.88 kip > 65 kips OK
where:

• lc : clear distance
• dh = 13/16 in. – nominal hole dimension (3/4-in.-diameter bolt)
• Lsv = 3 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lev = 1.25 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Lcsv = 2.19 in. – clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = 0.84 in. – clear vertical edge distance
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
B.2.7 Shear Rupture on Angles (Beam Side)

Rn/Ω = 0.60·Fu·Anv/Ω (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-4)

• Lh = dh + 1/16 (Section B4-3b, AISC Manual)

• Lh = 0.813 + 1/16 = 0.875 in.
• Le = L - n·Lh
• Le = 20.5 - 7·0.875 = 14.375 in.
• Anv = Le·tp
• Anv = (14.375 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 5.39 in.2
• Rn/Ω = (2 angles)·0.60·(58 kips)·(5.39 in.2) / 2
• Rn/Ω = 187.57 kips > 65 kips OK
where:

• Anv = 5.39 in.2 – net area subject to shear, in.2

• Lh = 0.875 in. – hole dimension for tension and shear net area
• Le = 14.375 in. – effective length
86
 • n=7 – number of the bolts
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
B.2.8 Block Shear on Angles (Beam Side)

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-5)

• Agv = (L-Lev)·(tp)
• Agv = (2 angles)·(20.5 in. - 1.25 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 14.44 in.2
• Anv = Agv - (2 angles)·(n-0.5)·(dh + 1/16 in.)·(tp)
• Anv = 14.44 in.2 - (2 angles)·(7-0.5)·(0.813 + 1/16 in.)·(0.375 in.)
• Anv = 10.17 in.2
• Ant = (2 angles)·[Leh - 0.5·( dh + 1/16 in.)]·(tp)
• Ant = (2 angles)·[1.25 in. - 0.5·(0.813 in. + 1/16 in.)]·(0.375 in.)
• Ant = 0.61 in.2
• Ubs = 1 (as the tension stress is uniform)
• Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant
• Rn = 0.60·(58 kips/in.2)·(10.17 in.2) + 1·(58 kips/in.2)·(0.61 in.2) ≤ 0.60·(36 kips/in.2)·(14.44
in.2) + 1·(58 kips/in.2)·(0.61 in.2)
• Rn = 389.3 kips ≤ 347.3 kips
• Rn/Ω = (347.3 kips) / 2
• Rn/Ω = 173.65 kips > 65 kips OK
where:

• Ubs = 1 – Stress index for uniform tension stress

• Ant = 0.61 in.2 – net area subject to tension
• Agv = 14.44 in.2 – gross area subject to shear
• Anv = 10.17 in.2 – net area subject to shear
• Lev = 1.25 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Leh = 1.25 in. – horizontal edge distance of angle
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
B.2.9 Shear Yielding on Angles

Rn/Ω = 0.60·Fy·Agv/Ω (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-3)

• Agv = (20.5 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 7.69 in.2

• Rn/Ω = (2 angles) 0.60·(36 kips)·( 7.69 in.2) / 1.5
• Rn/Ω = 221.47 kips > 65 kips OK
where:

• Agv = 7.69 in.2 – gross area subject to shear

• Ω = 1.5 – safety factor (ASD)
87
B.2.10 Shear Yielding on Beam

Rn/Ω = 0.60·Fy·Agv/Ω (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-3)

• Agv = (23.7 in.)·(0.415 in.) = 9.84 in.2

• Rn/Ω = 0.60·(50 kips)·( 9.84 in.2) / 1.5
• Rn/Ω = 196.8 kips > 65 kips OK
where:

• Agv = 9.84 in.2 – gross area subject to shear, in.2

• Ω = 1.5 – safety factor (ASD)
B.2.11 Welds Rupture on Angles (Support side)

tmin = [0.6·(FEXX)·(21/2/2)·(D/16)] / [0.6·(Fu)] (Page 9-5, AISC Manual)

• tmin = [0.6·(70 ksi)·(21/2/2)·(4/16)] / [0.6·(58)]

• tmin = 0.21 in. < tf = 0.87 in. OK
where:

• D=4 – number of sixteenths-of-an-inch in the weld size

• Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile strength of the connecting element
• FEXX = 70 ksi – electrode classification number
B.2.12 Weld Capacity

Rn/Ω = 2 [(FEXX)·0.6·(D/16)·L·(21/2/2) / (1 + 12.96·e2/L2)1/2]/Ω (Page 10-11, AISC Manual)

• Rn/Ω = 2 [70·0.6·(D/16)·L·(21/2/2) / (1 + 12.96·e2/L2)1/2] / 2

• Rn/Ω = 2 [(0.928·D·L) / (1 + 12.96·e2/L2)1/2]
• Rn/Ω = 2 [(0.928·4·20.5) / (1 + 12.96·42/20.52)1/2]
• Rn/Ω = 124.5 kips > 65 kips OK
where:

• D=4 – number of sixteenths-of-an-inch in the weld size

• L = 20.5 in. – length of the angles
• e=4 – width of the leg of the angle
• FEXX = 70 ksi – filler metal electrode classification strength
B.2.13 Weld Capacity (no eccentricity)

Rn = Fnw·Awe (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-2)

• Fnw = 0.60·(FEXX)·(1.0+0.50 sin(θ)1.5) = 0.60·70 ksi = 42 ksi (It is assumed that θ = 0)

88
 • Awe = (D/16)·L·(21/2/2) = (4/16)·(20.5 in.)·(21/2/2) = 3.62 in.2
• Rn/Ω = (42 ksi)·(3.62 in.2) / 2 = 76.0 kips (for one angle)
• Rn/Ω = (2 angles)·(76.0 kips) = 152.0 kips > 65 kips OK (for double angle)
where:

• D=4 – number of sixteenths-of-an-inch in the weld size

• L = 20.5 in. – length of the angles
• e=4 – width of the leg of the angle
• FEXX = 70 ksi – filler metal electrode classification strength
• Fnw = 42 ksi – nominal stress of the weld metal
• Awe = 3.62 in.2 – effective area of the weld
• θ=0 – angle between the line of action of the required force and the weld
longitudinal axis, degree

89
Appendix C. IDEA StatiCa Model

Figure C.1: IDEA StatiCa force applied on bolts in Test No. 4

Figure C.2: IDEA StatiCa force applied on bolts in Test No. 5

Figure C.3: IDEA StatiCa force applied on bolts in Test No. 6

90
 Figure C.4: IDEA StatiCa force applied on bolts in Test No. 9

Figure C.5: IDEA StatiCa force applied on welding in Test No. 4

Figure C.6: IDEA StatiCa force applied on welding in Test No. 5

91
Figure C.7: IDEA StatiCa force applied on welding in Test No. 6

Figure C.8: IDEA StatiCa force applied on welding in Test No. 9

Figure C.9: IDEA StatiCa force applied on bolts in Model 1

92
Figure C.10: IDEA StatiCa force applied on bolts in Model 2

Figure C.11: IDEA StatiCa force applied on bolts in Model 3

Figure C.12: IDEA StatiCa force applied on bolts in Model 4

93
 Figure C.13: IDEA StatiCa force applied on bolts in Model 5

Figure C.14: IDEA StatiCa force applied on bolts in Model 6

Figure C.15: IDEA StatiCa force applied on welding in Model 1

94
Figure C.16: IDEA StatiCa force applied on welding in Model 2

Figure C.17: IDEA StatiCa force applied on welding in Model 3

Figure C.18: IDEA StatiCa force applied on welding in Model 4

95
Figure C.19: IDEA StatiCa force applied on welding in Model 5

Figure C.20: IDEA StatiCa force applied on welding in Model 6

96
Appendix D. ABAQUS Model

Figure D.1: Comparsion of the predicted stress between IDEA StatiCa and ABAQUS for case 1

97
 Figure D.2: Comparsion of the predicted stress between IDEA StatiCa and ABAQUS for case 2

Note 1: In ABAQUS, node set was defined in different positions (e.g., shear plains) in order to
extract data (i.e., nodal forces, shear forces, etc.) from the model and calculate the bolt loads.
Note 2: In ABAQUS, to calculate the weld capacity, first the element with maximum stress was
identified (critical element). Then, the resultant force and its angle with the weld longitudinal
axis was obtained and approximated, respectively.

98
Appendix E. LRFD Strength Calculations for Semi-rigid Connection Test
Specimen (Test No. 14S1)

E.1 Loading and Assumptions

It is assumed that the double web-angle carries the applied shear force, and the top and seat angles
resist the applied moment.

PD = 10 kips (dead load)

PL = 30 kips (live load)

Strong-axis moment:

The shear loads are applied 2 in. away from the boltline.

MD = (10 kips)·( 2 in.) = 20 kips-in.

ML = (30 kips)·( 2 in.) = 60 kips-in.

E.1.1 LRFD Load Demand or Design Loads

According to the Load and Resistance Factored Design (LRFD) procedure (AISC 360-16 or AISC
Manual 2017), LRFD design load, factored load or demand, Pu under gravity loads is:

Pu = 1.2PD + 1.6PL (LRFD)

Pu = 1.2·(10 kips) + 1.6·(30 kips) = 60 kips (LRFD)

Mu = 1.2MD + 1.6ML (LRFD)

Mu = 1.2·(20 kips) + 1.6·(60 kips) = 120 kips-in. = 120 kips-ft (LRFD)

Then, the required strength, Ru using the LRFD load combinations will be set equal to the design
shear force, Vu applied on the connection. Then, for the cantilever beam and connection specimen:

Ru = Vu = Pu = 1.2PD + 1.6PL (LRFD)

E.2 Properties of Test Specimen (Test No. 14S1)

For the following analysis, consider:

o tw = web thickness of beam

o d = depth of beam
o T = clear distance between web fillets
o Fy = specified minimum yield strength
o Fu = specified minimum tensile strength
99
 o tf = flange thickness of column
o L = length of the angles

• Beam: W14x38
o Specified minimum yield strength, Fy = 36 ksi ASTM A36
o Specified minimum tensile strength, Fu = 58 ksi ASTM A36
o Web thickness of beam, tw = 0.31 in.
o Web thickness of beam, tf = 0.515 in.
o Depth of beam, d = 14.1 in.

• Column: W12x96
o Specified minimum yield strength, Fy = 36 ksi ASTM A36
o Specified minimum tensile strength, Fu = 58 ksi ASTM A36
o Flange thickness of column, tf = 0.9 in. (Table 1-1, AISC Manual)

• Double angles: 4 x 3½ x 1/4

o ASTM A36 Fy = 36 ksi Fu = 58 ksi
o Length of the double angles, L= 8.5 in.
o Number of bolts: 3
o Diameter of bolts: ¾ in.
o Type of bolts: A325-X (threads are excluded)

• Top and seat angles: 6 x 4 x 3/8

o ASTM A36 Fy = 36 ksi Fu = 58 ksi
o Length of the double angles, L= 8 in.
o Gage in leg on the column flange = 2.5 in.
o Bolt spacing in leg on column flange = 5.5 in.
o Diameter of bolts: ¾ in.
o Type of bolts: A325-X (threads are excluded)
E.3. Double Web-Angle Geometric Checks
For the following analysis, consider:
o tang = angle thickness
o Lmin = minimum angle length
o Lmax = maximum angle length
o Lemin = minimum edge distance
o Lev = vertical edge distance of angle
o Leh = horizontal edge distance of angle
o Lsvmin = minimum vertical center to center bolt distance
o Lsv = vertical center to center bolt distance
o Lsmax = maximum center to center bolt distance
o Lwmin = minimum weld length
100
 o d = bolt diameter
o T = clear distance between web fillets of the beam
E.3.1 Angle Thickness

tang ≤ 5/8 in. (Section J2.2b, AISC 360-16)

• tang = 1/4 in. ≤ 5/8 in. OK

where:

• tang = 1/4 in. – angle thickness

E.3.2 Angle Length

Lmin = T/2 (Page 10-9, AISC Manual)

• Lmin = (12.27 in.)/2 = 6.14 in.

• L = 9 in. ≥ Lmin = (12.27 in.)/2 = 6.14 in. OK
Lmax = T (Page 10-9, AISC Manual)

• Lmax = 12.27 in.

• L = 9 in. ≤ Lmax = 12.27 in. OK
where:

• T = 12.27 in. – clear distance between web fillets of the beam

• Lmin = 6.14 in. – minimum angle length
• Lmax = 12.27 in. – maximum angle length

E.3.3 Angle Edge Distance Check (Bolted to Beam)

Lemin = 1 in. for bolt diameter of ¾ in. (Table J3.4, AISC 360-16)

• Lev = 1.50 in. > Lemin = 1 in. OK

• Leh = 1.50 in. > Lemin = 1 in. OK
where:
• Lemin = 1 in. – minimum edge distance
• Lev = 1.50 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Leh = 1.50 in. – horizontal edge distance of angle
E.3.4 Angle Bolt Spacing Check (Bolted to Beam)

Lsvmin = (8/3)·d (Section J3.3, AISC 360-16)

101
 • Lsvmin = (8/3)·(¾ in.)
• Lsvmin = 2 in.
• Lsv = 3 in. > Lsvmin = 2 in. OK
Lsmax = minimum of (24·tang) and 12 in. (Section J3.5, AISC 360-16)

• Lsmax = 24·(0.25 in.)

• Lsmax = 6 in.
• Lsv = 3 in. < Lsmax = 6 in. OK
where:

• Lsvmin = 2 in. – minimum vertical center to center bolt distance

• Lsv = 3 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lsmax = 6 in. – maximum center to center bolt distance
• d = ¾ in. – bolt diameter

E.3.5 Angle Edge Distance Check (Bolted to Colum)

Lemin = 1 in. for bolt diameter of ¾ in. (Table J3.4, AISC 360-16)

• Lev = 1.25 in. > Lemin = 1 in. OK

• Leh = 1.25 in. > Lemin = 1 in. OK
where:
• Lemin = 1 in. – minimum edge distance
• Lev = 1.50 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Leh = 1.50 in. – horizontal edge distance of angle
E.3.6 Angle Bolt Spacing Check (Bolted to Column)

Lsvmin = (8/3)·d (Section J3.3, AISC 360-16)

• Lsvmin = (8/3)·(¾ in.)

• Lsvmin = 2 in.
• Lsv = 3 in. > Lsvmin = 2 in. OK
Lsmax = minimum of (24·tang) and 12 in. (Section J3.5, AISC 360-16)

• Lsmax = 24·(0.25 in.)

• Lsmax = 6 in.
• Lsv = 3 in. < Lsmax = 6 in. OK
where:

• Lsvmin = 2 in. – minimum vertical center to center bolt distance

102
 • Lsv = 3 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lsmax = 6 in. – maximum center to center bolt distance
• d = ¾ in. – bolt diameter

E.4. Double Web-Angle LRFD Design Checks

In this section, design of angles, bolts, beam and column are checked for the double web-angle.
The LRFD design strength Rn is calculated following the requirements of AISC Construction
Manual (2017) and AISC 360-16. The calculated design strength Rn is then compared with the
design demand Ru calculated from structural analysis using the factored external loads.

For the side of the web-angle bolted to beam web, shear, bearing, tearout, shear yielding, rupture,
and block shear failure limit states are checked in Sections E.4.1.1 through E.4.1.6.

For the side of the web-angle bolted to column flange, shear, bearing, tearout, shear yielding,
rupture, and block shear failure limit states are checked in Sections E.4.2.1 through E.4.2.6.

For beam, bearing, tearout and shear yielding failure limit states are checked in Sections E.4.3.1
through E.4.3.3.

For column, bearing is checked (Section E.4.4.1).

For the following analysis, consider:

• Fnv = nominal shear strength of fasteners

• Ab = nominal bolt area
•  = strength factor (LRFD)
• Fnt = nominal tensile strength of fasteners
• d = nominal bolt diameter
• t = thickness of the beam
• Fu = specified minimum tensile strength of beam
• lc = clear distance
• dh = nominal hole dimension
• Lsv = vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lev = vertical edge distance of angle
• Lcsv = clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = clear vertical edge distance
• Anv = net area subject to shear, in.2
• Lh = hole dimension for tension and shear net area
• Le = effective length
• n = number of the bolts
• Ubs = stress index for uniform tension stress
• Ant = net area subject to tension

103
 • Agv = gross area subject to shear
• Anv = net area subject to shear
• Lev = vertical edge distance of angle
• Leh = horizontal edge distance of angle
• L = length of the angles
E.4.1 Angle (Beam Side)
E.4.1.1 Bolt shear
Rn = Fn·Ab (Eq. J3-1, AISC 360-16)
• Shear strength of one bolt:
• Rn = 0.75·68·0.442 = 22.54 kips/bolt
• Total shear strength of three bolts double angle:
• Rn = 2 x 3 x 22.54 kips = 135.24 kips > 60 kips OK

where:

• Fnv = 68 ksi – nominal shear strength of fasteners (Table J3.2, AISC 360-16)
• Ab = 0.442 in.2 – nominal bolt area
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.4.1.2 Bolt bearing

The nominal bearing strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 2.4·d·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

• Rn =2.4·(3/4 in.)·(0.25 in.)·(58 ksi)

• Rn = 26.1 kips/bolt
• Rn = 0.75·(2 angles)·(3 bolts)·26.1 kips
• Rn = 117.45 kips/connection > 60 kips OK

where:

• d = 3/4 in. – nominal bolt diameter

• t = 0.25 in. – thickness of angle
• Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of angle
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.4.1.3 Bolt tearout

The available tearout strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 1.2·lc·t ·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)

104
 • Lcsv = Lsv - dh
• Lcsv = 3 in. - 13/16 in. = 2.19 in.
• Rn-span = 1.2·(2.19 in.)·(0.25 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-span = 38.1 kips/bolt
• Lcev = Lev - dh /2
• Lcev = 1.5 in. - (13/16)/2 in. = 1.09 in.
• Rn-end = 1.2·(1.09 in.)·(0.25 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-end = 18.97 kips/bolt
• Rn = 0.75·(2 angles)·[ 2·(38.1 kips) + (18.97 kips)]
• Rn = 142.76 kips/conn. > 60 kips OK

where:

• lc : clear distance
• dh = 13/16 in. – nominal hole dimension (3/4-in.-diameter bolt)
• Lsv = 3 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lev = 1.5 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Lcsv = 2.19 in. – clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = 1.09 in. – clear vertical edge distance
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.4.1.4 Shear yielding

Rn = 0.60·Fy·Agv  = 1.00 (LRFD) (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-3)

• Agv = (8.5 in.)·(0.25 in.) = 2.125 in.2

• Rn = 1.00·(2 angles) 0.60·(36 kips)·(2.125 in.2)
• Rn = 91.8 kips > 60 kips OK

where:

• Agv = 2.125 in.2 – gross area subject to shear

•  = 1.00 – strength factor (LRFD)
• L = 8.5 in. – length of angle
• t = 0.25 in. – thickness of angle
• Fy = 36 ksi – specified minimum yield strength
E.4.1.5 Shear rupture

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-4)

• Lh = dh + 1/16 (Section B4-3b, AISC Manual)

• Lh = 0.813 + 1/16 = 0.875 in.
• Le = L - n·Lh
105
 • Le = 8.5 - 3·0.875 = 5.875 in.
• Anv = Le·tp
• Anv = (5.875 in.)·(0.25 in.) = 1.47 in.2
• Rn = (0.75)·(2 angles)·0.60·(58 kips)·(1.47 in.2)
• Rn = 76.73 kips > 60 kips OK

where:

• Anv = 1.47 in.2 – net area subject to shear, in.2

• Lh = 0.875 in. – hole dimension for tension and shear net area
• Le = 5.875 in. – effective length
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
• n=3 – number of the bolts
• t = 0.25 in. – thickness of angle
E.4.1.6 Block shear

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-5)

• Agv = (L-Lev)·(tp)
• Agv = (2 angles)·(8.5 in. - 1.25 in.)·(0.25 in.) = 3.63 in.2
• Anv = Agv - (2 angles)·(n-0.5)·(dh + 1/16 in.)·(tp)
• Anv = 3.63 in.2 - (2 angles)·(3-0.5)·(0.813 + 1/16 in.)·(0.25 in.)
• Anv = 2.54 in.2
• Ant = (2 angles)·[Leh - 0.5·( dh + 1/16 in.)]·(tp)
• Ant = (2 angles)·[1.25 in. - 0.5·(0.813 in. + 1/16 in.)]·(0.25 in.)
• Ant = 0.41 in.2
• Ubs = 1 (as the tension stress is uniform)
• Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant
• Rn = 0.60·(58 kips/in.2)·(2.54 in.2) + 1·(58 kips/in.2)·(0.41 in.2) ≤ 0.60·(36 kips/in.2)·(3.63
in.2) + 1·(58 kips/in.2)·(0.41 in.2)
• Rn = 112.17 kips ≤ 102.19 kips
• Rn = 0.75·(111.74 kips)
• Rn = 71.53 kips > 60 kips OK

where:

• Ubs = 1 – Stress index for uniform tension stress

• Ant = 0.41 in.2 – net area subject to tension
• Agv = 3.63 in.2 – gross area subject to shear
• Anv = 2.54 in.2 – net area subject to shear
• Lev = 1.25 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Leh = 1.25 in. – horizontal edge distance of angle
106
 •  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.4.2 Angle (Column Side)

E.4.2.1 Bolt shear

Rn = Fn·Ab (Eq. J3-1, AISC 360-16)

• Shear strength of one bolt:

• Rn = 0.75·68·0.442 = 22.54 kips/bolt
• Total shear strength of three bolts double angle:
• Rn = 2 x 3 x 22.54 kips = 135.24 kips > 60 kips OK
where:

• Fnv = 68 ksi – nominal shear strength of fasteners (Table J3.2, AISC 360-16)
• Ab = 0.442 in.2 – nominal bolt area
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.4.2.2 Bolt bearing

The nominal bearing strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 2.4·d·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

• Rn =2.4·(3/4 in.)·(0.25 in.)·(58 ksi)

• Rn = 26.1 kips/bolt
• Rn = 0.75·(2 angles)·(3 bolts)·26.1 kips
• Rn = 117.45 kips/connection > 60 kips OK

where:

• d = 3/4 in. – nominal bolt diameter

• t = 0.25 in. – thickness of angle
• Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of angle
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.4.2.3 Bolt tearout

The available tearout strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 1.2·lc·t ·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)

• Lcsv = Lsv - dh
• Lcsv = 3 in. - 13/16 in. = 2.19 in.
107
 • Rn-span = 1.2·(2.19 in.)·(0.25 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-span = 38.1 kips/bolt
• Lcev = Lev - dh /2
• Lcev = 1.5 in. - (13/16)/2 in. = 1.09 in.
• Rn-end = 1.2·(1.09 in.)·(0.25 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-end = 18.97 kips/bolt
• Rn = 0.75·(2 angles)·[ 2·(38.1 kips) + (18.97 kips)]
• Rn = 142.76 kips/conn. > 60 kips OK

where:

• lc : clear distance
• dh = 13/16 in. – nominal hole dimension (3/4-in.-diameter bolt)
• Lsv = 3 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lev = 1.5 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Lcsv = 2.19 in. – clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = 1.09 in. – clear vertical edge distance
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.4.2.4 Shear yielding

Rn = 0.60·Fy·Agv  = 1.00 (LRFD) (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-3)

• Agv = (8.5 in.)·(0.25 in.) = 2.125 in.2

• Rn = 1.00·(2 angles) 0.60·(36 kips)·(2.125 in.2)
• Rn = 91.8 kips > 60 kips OK

where:

• Agv = 2.125 in.2 – gross area subject to shear

•  = 1.00 – strength factor (LRFD)
• L = 8.5 in. – length of angle
• t = 0.25 in. – thickness of angle
• Fy = 36 ksi – specified minimum yield strength
E.4.2.5 Shear rupture

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-4)

• Lh = dh + 1/16 (Section B4-3b, AISC Manual)

• Lh = 0.813 + 1/16 = 0.875 in.
• Le = L - n·Lh
• Le = 8.5 - 3·0.875 = 5.875 in.
• Anv = Le·tp
108
 • Anv = (5.875 in.)·(0.25 in.) = 1.47 in.2
• Rn = (0.75)·(2 angles)·0.60·(58 kips)·(1.47 in.2)
• Rn = 76.73 kips > 60 kips OK

where:

• Anv = 1.47 in.2 – net area subject to shear, in.2

• Lh = 0.875 in. – hole dimension for tension and shear net area
• Le = 5.875 in. – effective length
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
• n=3 – number of the bolts
• t = 0.25 in. – thickness of angle
E.4.2.6 Block shear

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-5)

• Agv = (L-Lev)·(tp)
• Agv = (2 angles)·(8.5 in. - 1.25 in.)·(0.25 in.) = 3.63 in.2
• Anv = Agv - (2 angles)·(n-0.5)·(dh + 1/16 in.)·(tp)
• Anv = 3.63 in.2 - (2 angles)·(3-0.5)·(0.813 + 1/16 in.)·(0.25 in.)
• Anv = 2.54 in.2
• Ant = (2 angles)·[Leh - 0.5·( dh + 1/16 in.)]·(tp)
• Ant = (2 angles)·[1.25 in. - 0.5·(0.813 in. + 1/16 in.)]·(0.25 in.)
• Ant = 0.41 in.2
• Ubs = 1 (as the tension stress is uniform)
• Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant
• Rn = 0.60·(58 kips/in.2)·(2.54 in.2) + 1·(58 kips/in.2)·(0.41 in.2) ≤ 0.60·(36 kips/in.2)·(3.63
in.2) + 1·(58 kips/in.2)·(0.41 in.2)
• Rn = 112.17 kips ≤ 102.19 kips
• Rn = 0.75·(111.74 kips)
• Rn = 71.53 kips > 60 kips OK

where:

• Ubs = 1 – stress index for uniform tension stress

• Ant = 0.41 in.2 – net area subject to tension
• Agv = 3.63 in.2 – gross area subject to shear
• Anv = 2.54 in.2 – net area subject to shear
• Lev = 1.25 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Leh = 1.25 in. – horizontal edge distance of angle
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.4.3 Beam
109
E.4.3.1 Bolt bearing

rn = 2.4·d·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

• rn =2.4·(3/4 in.)·(0.31 in.)·(58 ksi)

• rn = 32.36 kips/bolt
• Rn = 0.75·(3 bolts)·32.36 kips
• Rn = 72.81 kips/connection > 60 kips OK
where:

• d = 3/4 in. – nominal bolt diameter

• t = 0.31 in. – thickness of the beam
• Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of beam
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.4.3.2 Bolt tearout

The available tearout strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 1.2·lc·t ·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)

• Lcsv = 3 in. - 13/16 in. = 2.19 in.

• Lcev = [14.1 in. - 2·(3 in.) - (13/16) in.]/2 = 3.64 in.
• Rn-span = 1.2·(2.19 in.)·(0.31 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-span = 47.25 kips/bolt
• Rn-end = 1.2·(3.64 in.)·(0.31 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-end = 78.53 kips/bolt
• Rn = 0.75·[2·(47.25 kips) + (78.53 kips)] = 129.77 kips/connection > 60 kips OK
where:

• lc : clear distance
• dh = 13/16 in. – nominal hole dimension (3/4-in.-diameter bolt)
• Lsv = 3 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lcsv = 2.19 in. – clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = 3.64 in. – clear vertical edge distance
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.4.3.3 Shear yielding

Rn = 0.60·Fy·Agv (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-3)

• Agv = (14.1 in.)·(0.31 in.) = 4.37 in.2

110
 • Rn = 1.00·0.60·(36 kips)·(4.37 in.2)
• Rn = 94.41 kips > 60 kips OK

where:

• Agv = 4.37 in.2 – gross area subject to shear

•  = 1.00 – strength factor (LRFD)
• Fy = 36 ksi – specified minimum yield strength
E.4.4 Column

E.4.4.1 Bolt bearing

rn = 2.4·d·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

• rn =2.4·(3/4 in.)·(0.9 in.)·(58 ksi)

• rn = 93.96 kips/bolt
• Rn = 0.75·(3 bolts)·93.96 kips
• Rn = 211.41 kips/connection > 60 kips OK

where:

• d = 3/4 in. – nominal bolt diameter

• t = 0.9 in. – thickness of column web
• Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of beam
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.5 Top- and Seat-Angle Geometric Checks
For the following analysis, consider:

o Lemin = minimum edge distance

o Lel = longitudinal edge distance of angle
o Let = transverse edge distance of angle
o Lst = center to center bolt distance
o Lsmax = maximum center to center bolt distance
o d = bolt diameter
E.5.1 Angle Edge Distance Check (Bolted to Top Beam Flange)

Lemin = 1 in. for bolt diameter of ¾ in. (Table J3.4, AISC 360-16)

• Lel = 1.25 in. > Lemin = 1 in. OK

• Let = 1.25 in. > Lemin = 1 in. OK
where:
• Lemin = 1 in. – minimum edge distance
111
 • Lel = 1.25 in. – longitudinal edge distance of angle
• Let = 1.25 in. – transverse edge distance of angle
E.5.2 Angle Bolt Spacing Check (Bolted to Top Beam Flange)

Lsmin = (8/3)·d (Section J3.3, AISC 360-16)

• Lsvmin = (8/3)·(¾ in.)

• Lsvmin = 2 in.
• Lst = 3.5 in. > Lsvmin = 2 in. OK
• Lsl = 2.5 in. > Lsvmin = 2 in. OK
Lsmax = minimum of (24·tang) and 12 in. (Section J3.5, AISC 360-16)

• Lsmax = 24·(0.375 in.)

• Lsmax = 9 in.
• Lst = 3.5 in. < Lsmax = 9 in. OK
• Lsl = 2.5 in. < Lsmax = 9 in. OK
where:
• Lsmin = 2 in. – minimum center to center bolt distance
• Lst = 3.5 in. – transfer center to center bolt distance
• Lsmax = 9 in. – maximum center to center bolt distance
• d = ¾ in. – bolt diameter
E.5.3 Angle Bolt Spacing Check (Bolted to Column Flange)

Lsmin = (8/3)·d (Section J3.3, AISC 360-16)

• Lsvmin = (8/3)·(¾ in.)

• Lsvmin = 2 in.
• Lst = 5.5 in. > Lsvmin = 2 in. OK
Lsmax = minimum of (24·tang) and 12 in. (Section J3.5, AISC 360-16)

• Lsmax = 24·(0.375 in.)

• Lsmax = 9 in.
• Lsl = 5.5 in. < Lsmax = 9 in. OK
where:
• Lsmin = 2 in. – minimum center to center bolt distance
• Lst = 3.5 in. – transfer center to center bolt distance
• Lsmax = 9 in. – maximum center to center bolt distance
• d = ¾ in. – bolt diameter
E.6 Top and Seat Angle LRFD Design Checks
112
In this section, design of angles, bolts, beam and column are checked for the top and seat angles.
The LRFD design strength Rn is calculated following the requirements of AISC Construction
Manual (2017) and AISC 360-16. The calculated design strength Rn is then compared with the
design demand Ru calculated from structural analysis using the factored external loads.
Flange bolt shear force and flange tension force corresponding the design moment are calculated
in Sections E.6.1.1 and E.6.1.2.

For the side of the web-angle bolted to beam web, tension yielding, tension rupture, compression,
bolt shear, bearing, tearout, and block shear failure limit states are checked in Sections E.6.1.3
through E.6.1.9.
For the side of the web-angle bolted to column flange, shear yielding, shear rupture, tension (due
prying action) failure limit states are checked in Sections E.6.2.1 through E.6.2.3.
For beam, bearing, tearout, block shear and flexural failure limit states are checked in Sections
E.6.3.1 through E.6.3.4.
For column, web panel zone, flange local bending, web local yielding and web local crippling are
checked in Sections E.6.4.1 through E.6.4.4.
E.6.1 Angle (Beam Side)

E.6.1.1 Flange Bolt Shear Force

Puf = Mu/dm
• Puf = 120 kips-in. / 14.1 in. = 8.51 kips
where:
• dm = 14.1 in. – depth of beam
• Puf = 12.07 kips – flange bolt shear
E.6.1.2 Flange Tension Force
The moment arm between flange forces is equal to the summation of gage in leg on column flange,
beam depth and a half of the thickness of seated-angle.
Puf = Mu/(d + g + t/2)
• Puf = 120 kips-in. / (14.1 in. + 2.5 in. + 0.375 in./2) = 7.15 kips
where:
• g = 2.5 in – gage in leg on column flange
• dm = 14.1 in – depth of beam
• t = 0.375 in. – plate thickness
• Puf = 11.49 kips – flange tension force
E.6.1.3 Tension yielding

113
Rn = Fy·Ag (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-1)

where:

• Ag = (8 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 3 in.2

• Rn = (36 ksi)·3 = 108 kips
• Rn = 0.9·(108 ksi) = 97.2 kips > 7.15 kips OK

where:

• Ag =3 in.2 – gross area

• Fy = 36 ksi – specified minimum yield strength
•  = 0.9 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.6.1.4 Tension rupture

Rn = Fu·Ae (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-2)

• Ag = (8 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 3 in.2

• Lh = dh + 1/16 (Section B4-3b, AISC Manual)
• Lh = 0.813 + 1/16 = 0.875 in.
• An = (L - n·Lh)·tp
• An = (8 in. - 2·0.875 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 2.34 in.2
• Ae = An ≤ 0.85Ag (AISC 360-16, Sec. J4-1)
• Ae = 2.34 in.2
• Rn = (58 ksi)·(2.34 in.2) = 135.7 kips
• Rn = 0.75·(135.7 ksi) = 101.78 kips > 7.15 kips OK
where:

• Ag =3 in.2 – gross area

• Ae = 2.34 in.2 – effective net area
• Lh = 0.875 in. – hole dimension
• Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of beam
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.6.1.5 Compression

Pn = Fy·Ag when Lc/r ≤ 25 (AISC 360-16, Sec. J4-4)

• r = tp/(12)1/2 = 0.375 in./(12)1/2

• r = 0.108 in.
• Lc = K·L/r = 0.65·4.75 in./0.108 in.
• Lc = 28.6 > 25 OK
• Fe = π2·E/(Lc/r)2 (AISC 360-16, Eq. E3-4)
114
 • Fe = π2·2.90E+7 psi / (28.6/0.108 in.)2 = 3.52E+05 psi
• Fcr = 0.658(Fy/Fe)·Fy when Lc/r ≤ 4.71·(E/Fy)1/2 (AISC 360-16, Eq. E3-2)
• 28.6/0.108 in. ≤ 4.71·(2.90E+7 psi / 36000 psi)1/2 OK
• Fcr = 0.658(36000 /3.52E+05)·36,000 psi
• Fcr = 34,490.89 psi
• Ag = Lp·tp = 8 in.·0.375 in.
• Ag = 3 in.2
• Pn = ·Fcr·Ag = 0.9·(34,490.89 psi)·(3 in.2)
• Pn = 93.125 kips > 7.15 kips OK
where:

• K = 0.65 – effective length factor

• L = 4.75 in. – laterally unbraced length of the member
• Lc = 28.6 – effective length
• Fe = 3.52E+05 psi – elastic buckling stress
• Fcr = 34,490.89 psi – critical stress
• Ag = 3 in.2 – gross area
•  = 0.9 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.6.1.6 Bolt shear

Rn = Fn·Ab (Eq. J3-1, AISC 360-16)

• Shear strength of one bolt:

• Rn = 0.75·68·0.442 = 22.54 kips/bolt
• Total shear strength of four bolts:
• Rn = 4 x 22.54 kips = 90.16 kips > 8.51 kips OK
where:

• Fnv = 68 ksi – nominal shear strength of fasteners (Table J3.2, AISC 360-16)
• Ab = 0.442 in.2 – nominal bolt area
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.6.1.7 Bolt bearing

The nominal bearing strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 2.4·d·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

• Rn =2.4·(3/4 in.)·(0.375 in.)·(58 ksi)

• Rn = 39.15 kips/bolt
• Rn = 0.75·(4 bolts)·39.15 kips
115
 • Rn = 117.45 kips/connection > 8.51 kips OK

where:

• d = 3/4 in. – nominal bolt diameter

• t = 0.375 in. – thickness of angle
• Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of angle
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.6.1.8 Bolt Tearout

The available tearout strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 1.2·lc·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)

• Lcsv = Lsv - dh
• Lcsv = 2.5 in. - 13/16 in. = 1.69 in.
• Rn-span = 1.2·(1.69 in.)·(0.375 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-span = 44.1 kips/bolt
• Lcev = Lev - dh /2
• Lcev = 1.25 in. - (13/16)/2 in. = 0.84 in.
• Rn-end = 1.2·(0.84 in.)·(0.375 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-end = 21.92 kips/bolt
• Rn = 0.75·2·[(44.1 kips) + (21.92 kips)] = 99.03 kips/connection > 8.51 kips OK
where:

• lc : clear distance
• dh = 13/16 in. – nominal hole dimension (3/4-in.-diameter bolt)
• Lsv = 2.5 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lev = 1.25 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Lcsv = 1.69 in. – clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = 0.84 in. – clear vertical edge distance
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.6.1.9 Block shear

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-5)

• Agv = (L-Lev)·(tp)
• Agv = 2·(2.5 in. + 1.25 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 2.81 in.2
• Anv = Agv - 2·(n-0.5)·(dh + 1/16 in.)·(tp)
• Anv = 2.81 in.2 - 2·(2-0.5)·(0.813 + 1/16 in.)·(0.375 in.)
• Anv = 1.83 in.2
116
 • Ant = 2·[Leh - 0.5·( dh + 1/16 in.)]·(tp)
• Ant = 2·[1.25 in. - 0.5·(0.813 in. + 1/16 in.)]·(0.375 in.)
• Ant = 0.61 in.2
• Ubs = 1 (as the tension stress is uniform)
• Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant
• Rn = 0.60·(58 kips/in.2)·(1.83 in.2) + 1·(58 kips/in.2)·(0.61 in.2) ≤ 0.60·(36 kips/in.2)·(2.81
in.2) + 1·(58 kips/in.2)·(0.61 in.2)
• Rn = 99.06 kips ≤ 96.08 kips
• Rn = 0.75·(96.08 kips)
• Rn = 67.25 kips > 7.15 kips OK
where:

• Ubs = 1 – stress index for uniform tension stress

• Ant = 0.61 in.2 – net area subject to tension
• Agv = 2.81 in.2 – gross area subject to shear
• Anv = 1.83 in.2 – net area subject to shear
• Lev = 1.25 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Leh = 1.25 in. – horizontal edge distance of angle
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)

E.6.2 Angle (Column Side)

E.6.2.1 Shear yielding

Rn = 0.60·Fy·Agv  = 1.00 (LRFD) (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-3)

• Agv = (8 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 3 in.2

• Rn = 1.00·0.60·(36 kips)·(3 in.2)
• Rn = 64.8 kips > 7.15 kips OK

where:

• Agv = 3 in.2 – gross area subject to shear

• L = 8 in. – length of angle
• t = 0.375 in. – thickness of angle
•  = 1.00 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.6.2.2 Shear rupture

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-4)

• Lh = dh + 1/16 (Section B4-3b, AISC Manual)

• Lh = 0.813 + 1/16 = 0.875 in.
• Le = L - n·Lh
117
 • Le = 8 - 2·0.875 = 6.25 in.
• Anv = Le·tp
• Anv = (6.25 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 2.34 in.2
• Rn = (0.75)·0.60·(58 kips)·(2.34 in.2)
• Rn = 61.07 kips > 7.15 kips OK
where:

• Anv = 2.34 in.2 – net area subject to shear, in.2

• Lh = 0.875 in. – hole dimension for tension and shear net area
• Le = 6.25 in. – effective length
• n=2 – number of the bolts
• t = 0.25 in. – thickness of angle
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.6.2.3 Tension capacity due prying action

Tc = Bc·Q (AISC Manual, Eq. 9-27)

a' = (a + d/2) ≤ (1.25·b + d/2)

a' = (1.5 in. + 0.75 in./2) ≤ (1.25·2.31 in. + 0.75 in./2)

a' = 1.875 in. ≤ 3.26 in.

a' = 1.875 in.

b' = b - d/2 = 2.31 in. – (0.75 in.)/2

b' = 1.94 in.

ρ = b'/a' = (1.94 in.)/(1.875 in.)

ρ = 1.03

p = L/n = (8 in.)/2 = 4 in.

δ = 1 - d'/p = 1 - (0.813 in.)/(4 in.)

δ = 0.80

Bc = Rn = ·Fnt·Ab

Bc = 0.75·(90 ksi)·(0.442 in.2)

Bc = 29.84 kips (per bolt)

118
tc = ((4·B·b')/( ·p·Fu))1/2

tc = [4·(29.84 kips)·(1.938 in.)/(0.9·(4 in.)·(58 ksi))]1/2

tc = 1.05 in.

α' = (1/(δ·(1 + ρ)))·((tc/tp)2 -1)

α' = (1/(0.80·(1 + 1.03)))·((1.05 in.)/(0.375 in.)2 -1)

α' = 3.99

Q = (tp/tc)2·(1 + δ)

Q = ((0.375 in.)/(1.05 in.))2·(1 + 0.8)

Q = 0.23

Tc = (2 bolts)·Bc·Q = 2·(29.84 kips)·(0.23)

Tc = 13.73 kips > 7.15 kips OK (Governs)

where:

• a =1.5 in. – distance from the bolt centerline to the edge of the fitting
• a' = 1.875 in. – distance for prying action
• b' = 1.94 in. – distance for prying action
• ρ = 1.03 – prying distances ratio
• δ = 0.80 – ratio of the net length at bolt line to gross length at the
face of the stem or leg of angle
• p = 4 in. – average pitch of the bolts
• tc = 1.05 in. – flange thickness
• tp = 0.375 in. – thickness of angle
• Bc = 29.84 kips – available tensile strength per bolt
• Q = 0.23 – prying action coefficient
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)

E.6.3 Beam

E.6.3.1 Bolt bearing

rn = 2.4·d·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

• rn =2.4·(3/4 in.)·(0.515 in.)·(58 ksi)

• rn = 53.77 kips/bolt
• Rn = 0.75·(3 bolts)·53.77 kips
119
 • Rn = 120.97 kips/connection > 8.51 kips OK
where:

• d = 3/4 in. – nominal bolt diameter

• t = 0.515 in. – thickness of the beam flange
• Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of beam
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.6.3.2 Bolt tearout

The available tearout strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 1.2·lc·t ·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)

• Lcsv = 2.5 in. - 13/16 in. = 1.69 in.

• Lcev = [8.5 in. - 2·(2.5 in.) - (13/16) in.]/2 = 1.34 in.
• Rn-span = 1.2·(1.69 in.)·(0.515 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-span = 60.58 kips/bolt
• Rn-end = 1.2·(1.34 in.)·(0.515 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-end = 47.10 kips/bolt
• Rn = 2·0.75·[·(60.58 kips) + (47.10 kips)] = 161.52 kips/connection > 8.51 kips OK

where:

• lc : clear distance
• dh = 13/16 in. – nominal hole dimension (3/4-in.-diameter bolt)
• Lsv = 2.5 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lcsv = 1.69 in. – clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = 1.34 in. – clear vertical edge distance
• t = 0.515 in. – thickness of the beam flange
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.6.3.3 Block shear

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-5)

• Agv = 2·(Ls-Lev)·(tp)
• Agv = 2·(2.5 in. + 1.75 in.)·(0.515 in.) = 4.38 in.2
• Anv = 2·(tp)·[ Lev + (n-1)·(Ls - (dh + 1/16 in.)) - (dh + 1/16 in.)/2)]
• Anv = 2·(0.515 in.)·(1.75 in. + (2-1)·(2.5 - 0.813 in. - 1/16 in.)-( 0.813 in. + 1/16 in.)/2)
• Anv = 3.02 in.2
• Ant = [b- (n-1)·( dh + 1/16 in.)]·(tp)
• Ant = [3.25 in. - 1·(0.813 in. + 1/16 in.)]·(0.515 in.)
120
 • Ant = 1.23 in.2
• Ubs = 1 (as the tension stress is uniform)
• Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant
• Rn = 0.60·(58 kips/in.2)·(3.02 in.2) + 1·(58 kips/in.2)·(4.38 in.2) ≤ 0.60·(36 kips/in.2)·(4.38
in.2) + 1·(58 kips/in.2)·(1.23 in.2)
• Rn = 359.14 kips ≤ 165.95 kips
• Rn = 0.75·(165.95 kips)
• Rn = 124.46 kips > 8.51 kips OK
where:

• Ubs = 1 – stress index for uniform tension stress

• Ant = 1.23 in.2 – net area subject to tension
• Agv = 4.38 in.2 – gross area subject to shear
• Anv = 3.02 in.2 – net area subject to shear
• Lev = 1.75 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Ls = 2.5 in. – width of angle
• t = 0.515 in. – thickness of the beam flange
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.6.3.4 Flexural strength

Mn = Sx·Fu·Afn/Afg when Fu·Afn < Yt·Fy·Afg (AISC 360-16, Eq. F13-1)

Otherwise, the limit state of tensile rupture does not apply

• Afg = (bf)·(tf)
• Afg = (6.77 in.)·(0.515 in.) = 3.49 in.2
• Afn = Afg - n·(dh + 1/16 in.)·(tp)
• Afn = 3.49 in.2 - 2·(0.813 in. + 1/16 in.)·(0.515 in.) = 2.59 in.2
• Fy/Fu = (36 ksi)/(58 ksi) = 0.62 < 0.8 therefore Yt = 1.0
• 2
Fu·Afn = (58 ksi)·(2.59 in. ) = 150.22 kips
• Yt·Fy·Afg = 1.0·(36 ksi)·(3.49 in.2) = 125.64 kips
• Fu·Afn = 150.22 kips < Yt·Fy·Afg = 125.64 kips NOT OK
• Mn = ·Fy·Sx = 0.90·(36 ksi)·(61.5 in. ) / 12
3

• Mn = 166.05 kips-ft > 10 kips-ft OK

where:

• Afg = 3.49 in.2 – gross area of tension flange (Section B4.3a)

• Afn = 2.59 in.2 – net area of tension flange (Section B4.3b)
• Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile strength
• Fy = 36 ksi – specified minimum yield strength
• Yt = 1.0 – beam flexural factor (= 1.0 for Fy/Fu ≤ 0.8, otherwise = 1.1)
121
 • bf = 6.77 in. – beam flange width
• tf = 0.515 in. – beam flange thickness
• Sx = 61.5 in.3 – minimum elastic section modulus of beam
•  = 0.9 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.6.4 Column

E.6.4.1 Web panel zone shear

Rn = 0.60·Fy·dc·tw for Pr < 0.40·Pc (AISC 360-16, Eq. J10-9)

• Py = Fy·Ag = (36 ksi)·(28.2 in.2) = 1015.2 kips

• Pr = 0 < 0.40·Py = 0.40·(1,015.2 kips) = 406.08 kips
• Rn = 0.60·Fy·dc·tw
• Rn = 0.60·(36 ksi)·(12.7 in.)·(0.55 in.) = 150.88 kips
• Rn = 0.9·(150.88 kips) = 135.79 kips > 7.15 kips OK

where:

• Ag = 28.2 in.2 – column cross-sectional area

• Pr = 0 kips – required axial strength
• Py = 1015.2 kips – axial yield strength of the column
• dc = 12.7 in. – depth of column
• tw = 0.55 in. – thickness of column web
• Fy = 36 ksi – specified minimum yield strength
•  = 0.9 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.6.4.2 Flange local bending

Rn = 6.25·(Fyf)·(tf)2 (AISC 360-16, Eq. J10-1)

• Rn = 6.25·(36 ksi)·(0.9 in.2)2

• Rn = 182.25 kips
• Rn = (0.9)·182.25 kips
• Rn =164.03 kips > 7.15 kips OK

where:

• Fyf = 36 ksi – specified minimum yield stress of the flange

• tf = 0.9 in.2 – thickness of the column flange
•  = 0.9 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.6.4.3 Web local yielding

Rn = (Fyw)·(tw)·(5·k + lb) (AISC 360-16, Eq. J10-2)

122
 • Rn = (36 ksi)·(0.55 in.)·(5·(1.5 in.) + 0.75 in.)
• Rn =163.35 kips
• Rn = (1.0)·163.35 kips = 163.35 kips > 7.15 kips OK

where:

• Fyw = 36 ksi – specified minimum yield strength of the web material

• tw = 0.55 in.2 – thickness of column web
• k = 1.5 in. – distance from outer face of the flange to the web toe of the fillet
• lb = 0.75 in. – length of bearing (not less than k for end beam reactions)
•  = 1.0 – strength factor (LRFD)
E.6.4.4 Web local crippling

Rn = 0.80·(tw)2·[1+3·(lb/d)(tw/tf)1.5]·[E·(Fyw)·(tf)/(tw)]1/2·Qf (AISC 360-16, Eq. J10-4)

• Rn = 0.80·(0.55 in.)2·[1+3·(0.9 in.2/12.7 in.)(0.55 in.2/0.9 in.2)1.5]·[2.9E+7·(36 ksi)·(0.9

in.2)/(0.55)]1/2·(1.0) = 343.08 kips
• Rn = 0.75·(343.08 kips) = 257.31 kips > 7.15 kips OK

where:

• Fyw = 36 ksi – specified minimum yield strength of the web material

• tw = 0.55 in. 2
– thickness of column web
• tf = 0.9 in. 2
– thickness of column flange
• lb = 0.75 in. – length of bearing (not less than k for end beam reactions)
• d = 12.7 in. – full nominal depth of the member
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
• E = 2.9E+7 – Elastic Modulus
• Qf = 1.0 – 1.0 for wide-flange sections and for HSS (connecting surface) in
tension = as given in Table K3.2 (AISC 360-16) for all other HSS conditions

123
Appendix F. ASD Strength Calculations for Semi-rigid Connection Test
Specimen (Test No. 14S1)

F.1 Loading and Assumptions

It is assumed that the double web angle carries the applied shear force, and the top and seat angles
resist the applied moment.

Vertical shear force:

PD = 10 kips (dead load)

PL = 30 kips (live load)

Strong-axis moment:

The shear loads are applied 2 in. away from the boltline.

MD = (10 kips)·( 2 in.) = 20 kips-in.

ML = (30 kips)·( 2 in.) = 60 kips-in.

F.1.1 ASD Load Demand or Design Loads

According to the Load and Resistance Factored Design (ASD) procedure (AISC 360-16 or AISC
Manual 2017), ASD design load, factored load or demand, Pu under gravity loads is:

Pa = PD + PL (ASD)

Pu = 10 kips + 30 kips = 40 kips (ASD)

Mu = MD + ML (ASD)

Mu = 20 kips + 60 kips = 80 kips-in. = 6.67 kips-ft (ASD)

Then, the required strength, Ru using the ASD load combinations will be set equal to the design
shear force, Vu applied on the connection. Then, for the cantilever beam and connection specimen:

Ru = Vu = Pu = PD + PL (ASD)

F.2. Double Web-Angle ASD Design Checks

F.2.1 Angle (Beam Side)
F.2.1.1 Bolt shear
Rn = Fn·Ab (Eq. J3-1, AISC 360-16)
124
 • Shear strength of one bolt:
• Rn/Ω = 68·0.442 / 2 = 15.03 kips/bolt
• Total shear strength of three bolts double angle:
• Rn/Ω = 2 x 3 x 22.54 kips = 90.18 kips > 40 kips OK
where:

• Fnv = 68 ksi – nominal shear strength of fasteners (Table J3.2, AISC 360-16)
• Ab = 0.442 in.2 – nominal bolt area
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
F.2.1.2 Bolt bearing

The nominal bearing strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 2.4·d·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

• Rn =2.4·(3/4 in.)·(0.25 in.)·(58 ksi)

• Rn = 26.1 kips/bolt
• Rn/Ω = (2 angles)·(3 bolts)·(26.1 kips) / 2
• Rn/Ω = 78.30 kips/connection > 40 kips OK
where:

• d = 3/4 in. – nominal bolt diameter

• t = 0.25 in. – thickness of angle
• Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of angle
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
F.2.1.3 Bolt tearout

The available tearout strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 1.2·lc·t ·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)

• Lcsv = Lsv - dh
• Lcsv = 3 in. - 13/16 in. = 2.19 in.
• Rn-span = 1.2·(2.19 in.)·(0.25 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-span = 38.1 kips/bolt
• Lcev = Lev - dh /2
• Lcev = 1.5 in. - (13/16)/2 in. = 1.09 in.
• Rn-end = 1.2·(1.09 in.)·(0.25 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-end = 18.97 kips/bolt
125
 • Rn/Ω = (2 angles)·[ 2·(38.1 kips) + (18.97 kips)] / 2
• Rn/Ω = 95.15 kips/conn. > 40 kips OK
where:

• lc : clear distance
• dh = 13/16 in. – nominal hole dimension (3/4-in.-diameter bolt)
• Lsv = 3 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lev = 1.5 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Lcsv = 2.19 in. – clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = 1.09 in. – clear vertical edge distance
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
F.2.1.4 Shear yielding

Rn = 0.60·Fy·Agv (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-3)

• Agv = (8.5 in.)·(0.25 in.) = 2.125 in.2

• Rn/Ω = (2 angles) 0.60·(36 kips)·(2.125 in.2) / 1.5
• Rn/Ω = 61.20 kips > 40 kips OK
where:

• Agv = 2.125 in.2 – gross area subject to shear

• L = 8.5 in. – length of angle
• t = 0.25 in. – thickness of angle
• Fy = 36 ksi – specified minimum yield strength
• Ω = 1.5 – safety factor (ASD)
F.2.1.5 Shear rupture

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-4)

• Lh = dh + 1/16 (Section B4-3b, AISC Manual)

• Lh = 0.813 + 1/16 = 0.875 in.
• Le = L - n·Lh
• Le = 8.5 - 3·0.875 = 5.875 in.
• Anv = Le·tp
• Anv = (5.875 in.)·(0.25 in.) = 1.47 in.2
• Rn/Ω = (2 angles)·0.60·(58 kips)·(1.47 in.2) / 2
• Rn/Ω = 51.16 kips > 40 kips OK
where:

• Anv = 1.47 in.2 – net area subject to shear, in.2

126
 • Lh = 0.875 in. – hole dimension for tension and shear net area
• Le = 5.875 in. – effective length
• n=3 – number of the bolts
• t = 0.25 in. – thickness of angle
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
F.2.1.6 Block shear

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-5)

• Agv = (L-Lev)·(tp)
• Agv = (2 angles)·(8.5 in. - 1.25 in.)·(0.25 in.) = 3.63 in.2
• Anv = Agv - (2 angles)·(n-0.5)·(dh + 1/16 in.)·(tp)
• Anv = 3.63 in.2 - (2 angles)·(3-0.5)·(0.813 + 1/16 in.)·(0.25 in.)
• Anv = 2.54 in.2
• Ant = (2 angles)·[Leh - 0.5·( dh + 1/16 in.)]·(tp)
• Ant = (2 angles)·[1.25 in. - 0.5·(0.813 in. + 1/16 in.)]·(0.25 in.)
• Ant = 0.41 in.2
• Ubs = 1 (as the tension stress is uniform)
• Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant
• Rn = 0.60·(58 kips/in.2)·(2.54 in.2) + 1·(58 kips/in.2)·(0.41 in.2) ≤ 0.60·(36 kips/in.2)·(3.63
in.2) + 1·(58 kips/in.2)·(0.41 in.2)
• Rn = 112.17 kips ≤ 102.19 kips
• Rn/Ω = (111.74 kips)/2
• Rn/Ω = 55.87 kips > 40 kips OK
where:

• Ubs = 1 – Stress index for uniform tension stress

• Ant = 0.41 in.2 – net area subject to tension
• Agv = 3.63 in.2 – gross area subject to shear
• Anv = 2.54 in.2 – net area subject to shear
• Lev = 1.25 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Leh = 1.25 in. – horizontal edge distance of angle
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
F.2.2 Angle (Column Side)

F.2.2.1 Bolt shear

Rn = Fn·Ab (Eq. J3-1, AISC 360-16)

• Shear strength of one bolt:

• Rn/Ω = 68·0.442 / 2 = 15.03 kips/bolt
127
 • Total shear strength of three bolts double angle:
• Rn/Ω = 2 x 3 x 15.03 kips = 90.18 kips > 40 kips OK
where:

• Fnv = 68 ksi – nominal shear strength of fasteners (Table J3.2, AISC 360-16)
• Ab = 0.442 in.2 – nominal bolt area
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
F.2.2.2 Bolt bearing

The nominal bearing strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 2.4·d·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

• Rn =2.4·(3/4 in.)·(0.25 in.)·(58 ksi)

• Rn = 26.1 kips/bolt
• Rn/Ω = (2 angles)·(3 bolts)·(26.1 kips) / 2
• Rn/Ω = 78.30 kips/connection > 40 kips OK
where:

• d = 3/4 in. – nominal bolt diameter

• t = 0.25 in. – thickness of angle
• Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of angle
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
F.2.3.3 Bolt tearout

The available tearout strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 1.2·lc·t ·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)

• Lcsv = Lsv - dh
• Lcsv = 3 in. - 13/16 in. = 2.19 in.
• Rn-span = 1.2·(2.19 in.)·(0.25 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-span = 38.1 kips/bolt
• Lcev = Lev - dh /2
• Lcev = 1.5 in. - (13/16)/2 in. = 1.09 in.
• Rn-end = 1.2·(1.09 in.)·(0.25 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-end = 18.97 kips/bolt
• Rn/Ω = (2 angles)·[2·(38.1 kips) + (18.97 kips)] / 2 = 95.15 kips/conn. > 40 kips OK
where:
128
 • lc : clear distance
• dh = 13/16 in. – nominal hole dimension (3/4-in.-diameter bolt)
• Lsv = 3 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lev = 1.5 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Lcsv = 2.19 in. – clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = 1.09 in. – clear vertical edge distance
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
F.2.4.4 Shear yielding

Rn = 0.60·Fy·Agv (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-3)

• Agv = (8.5 in.)·(0.25 in.) = 2.125 in.2

• Rn/Ω = (2 angles) 0.60·(36 kips)·(2.125 in.2) / 1.5
• Rn/Ω = 61.2 kips > 40 kips OK
where:

• Agv = 2.125 in.2 – gross area subject to shear

• L = 8.5 in. – length of angle
• t = 0.25 in. – thickness of angle
• Fy = 36 ksi – specified minimum yield strength
• Ω = 1.5 – safety factor (ASD)
F.2.5.5 Shear rupture

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-4)

• Lh = dh + 1/16 (Section B4-3b, AISC Manual)

• Lh = 0.813 + 1/16 = 0.875 in.
• Le = L - n·Lh
• Le = 8.5 - 3·0.875 = 5.875 in.
• Anv = Le·tp
• Anv = (5.875 in.)·(0.25 in.) = 1.47 in.2
• Rn/Ω = (2 angles)·0.60·(58 kips)·(1.47 in.2) / 2
• Rn/Ω = 51.16 kips > 40 kips OK
where:

• Anv = 1.47 in.2 – net area subject to shear, in.2

• Lh = 0.875 in. – hole dimension for tension and shear net area
• Le = 5.875 in. – effective length
• n=3 – number of the bolts
• t = 0.25 in. – thickness of angle
129
 • Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
F.2.6.6 Block shear

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-5)

• Agv = (L-Lev)·(tp)
• Agv = (2 angles)·(8.5 in. - 1.25 in.)·(0.25 in.) = 3.63 in.2
• Anv = Agv - (2 angles)·(n-0.5)·(dh + 1/16 in.)·(tp)
• Anv = 3.63 in.2 - (2 angles)·(3-0.5)·(0.813 + 1/16 in.)·(0.25 in.)
• Anv = 2.54 in.2
• Ant = (2 angles)·[Leh - 0.5·( dh + 1/16 in.)]·(tp)
• Ant = (2 angles)·[1.25 in. - 0.5·(0.813 in. + 1/16 in.)]·(0.25 in.)
• Ant = 0.41 in.2
• Ubs = 1 (as the tension stress is uniform)
• Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant
• Rn = 0.60·(58 kips/in.2)·(2.54 in.2) + 1·(58 kips/in.2)·(0.41 in.2) ≤ 0.60·(36 kips/in.2)·(3.63
in.2) + 1·(58 kips/in.2)·(0.41 in.2)
• Rn = 112.17 kips ≤ 102.19 kips
• Rn/Ω = (111.74 kips) / 2
• Rn/Ω = 55.87 kips > 40 kips OK
where:

• Ubs = 1 – stress index for uniform tension stress

• Ant = 0.41 in.2 – net area subject to tension
• Agv = 3.63 in.2 – gross area subject to shear
• Anv = 2.54 in.2 – net area subject to shear
• Lev = 1.25 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Leh = 1.25 in. – horizontal edge distance of angle
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
F.2.3 Beam

F.2.3.1 Bolt bearing

rn = 2.4·d·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

• rn =2.4·(3/4 in.)·(0.31 in.)·(58 ksi)

• rn = 32.36 kips/bolt
• Rn/Ω = (3 bolts)·(32.36 kips) / 2
• Rn/Ω = 48.54 kips/connection > 40 kips OK
where:

130
 • d = 3/4 in. – nominal bolt diameter
• t = 0.31 in. – thickness of the beam
• Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of beam
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
F.2.3.2 Bolt tearout

The available tearout strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 1.2·lc·t ·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)

• Lcsv = 3 in. - 13/16 in. = 2.19 in.

• Lcev = [14.1 in. - 2·(3 in.) - (13/16) in.]/2 = 3.64 in.
• Rn-span = 1.2·(2.19 in.)·(0.31 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-span = 47.25 kips/bolt
• Rn-end = 1.2·(3.64 in.)·(0.31 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-end = 78.53 kips/bolt
• Rn/Ω = [2·(47.25 kips) + (78.53 kips)] / 2 = 86.52 kips/connection > 40 kips OK
where:

• lc : clear distance
• dh = 13/16 in. – nominal hole dimension (3/4-in.-diameter bolt)
• Lsv = 3 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lcsv = 2.19 in. – clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = 3.64 in. – clear vertical edge distance
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
F.2.3.3 Shear yielding

Rn = 0.60·Fy·Agv (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-3)

• Agv = (14.1 in.)·(0.31 in.) = 4.37 in.2

• Rn/Ω = 0.60·(36 kips)·(4.37 in.2) / 1.5
• Rn/Ω = 62.93 kips > 40 kips OK
where:

• Agv = 4.37 in.2 – gross area subject to shear

• Fy = 36 ksi – specified minimum yield strength
• Ω = 1.5 – safety factor (ASD)
F.2.4 Column

F.2.4.1 Bolt bearing

131
rn = 2.4·d·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

• rn =2.4·(3/4 in.)·(0.9 in.)·(58 ksi)

• rn = 93.96 kips/bolt
• Rn/Ω = (3 bolts)·(93.96 kips ) / 2
• Rn/Ω = 140.94 kips/connection > 40 kips OK
where:

• d = 3/4 in. – nominal bolt diameter

• t = 0.9 in. – thickness of column web
• Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of beam
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
F.3 Top- and Seat-Angle ASD Design Checks
F.3.1 Angle (Beam Side)
F.3.1.1 Flange Bolt Shear Force

Puf = Mu/dm
• Puf = 80 kips-in. / 14.1 in. = 5.67 kips
where:
• dm = 14.1 in. – depth of beam
• Puf = 5.67 kips – flange bolt shear
F.3.1.2 Flange Tension Force
The moment arm between flange forces is equal to the summation of gage in leg on column flange,
beam depth and a half of the thickness of seated-angle.
Puf = Mu/(d + g + t/2)
• Puf = 80 kips-in. / (14.1 in. + 2.5 in. + 0.375 in./2) = 4.15 kips
where:
• g = 2.5 in – gage in leg on column flange
• dm = 14.1 in – depth of beam
• t = 0.375 in. – plate thickness
• Puf = 11.49 kips – flange tension force
F.3.1.3 Tension yielding

Rn = Fy·Ag (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-1)

where:

• Ag = (8 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 3 in.2

132
 • Rn = (36 ksi)·3 = 108 kips
• Rn/Ω = (108 ksi) / 1.67 = 64.67 kips > 4.15 kips
where:

• Ag =3 in.2 – gross area

• Fy = 36 ksi – specified minimum yield strength
• Ω = 1.67 – safety factor (ASD)
F.3.1.4 Tension rupture

Rn = Fu·Ae (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-2)

• Ag = (8 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 3 in.2

• Lh = dh + 1/16 (Section B4-3b, AISC Manual)
• Lh = 0.813 + 1/16 = 0.875 in.
• An = (L - n·Lh)·tp
• An = (8 in. - 2·0.875 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 2.34 in.2
• Ae = An ≤ 0.85Ag (AISC 360-16, Sec. J4-1)
• Ae = 2.34 in.2
• Rn = (58 ksi)·(2.34 in.2) = 135.7 kips
• Rn/Ω = (135.7 ksi) / 2 = 67.85 kips > 4.15 kips
where:

• Ag =3 in.2 – gross area

• Ae = 2.34 in.2 – effective net area
• Lh = 0.875 in. – hole dimension
• Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of beam
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
F.3.1.5 Compression

Pn = Fy·Ag when Lc/r ≤ 25 (AISC 360-16, Sec. J4-4)

• r = tp/(12)1/2 = 0.375 in./(12)1/2

• r = 0.108 in.
• Lc = K·L/r = 0.65·4.75 in./0.108 in.
• Lc = 28.6 > 25 OK
• Fe = π2·E/(Lc/r)2 (AISC 360-16, Eq. E3-4)
• Fe = π2·2.90E+7 psi / (28.6/0.108 in.)2 = 3.52E+05 psi
• Fcr = 0.658(Fy/Fe)·Fy when Lc/r ≤ 4.71·(E/Fy)1/2 (AISC 360-16, Eq. E3-2)
• 28.6/0.108 in. ≤ 4.71·(2.90E+7 psi / 36,000 psi)1/2 OK
• Fcr = 0.658(36000 /3.52E+05)·36,000 psi
133
 • Fcr = 34,490.89 psi
• Ag = Lp·tp = 8 in.·0.375 in.
• Ag = 3 in.2
• Rn/Ω = Fcr·Ag/Ω = (34,490.89 psi)·(3 in.2) / 1.67
• Rn/Ω = 61.96 kips > 4.15 kips
where:

• K = 0.65 – effective length factor

• L = 4.75 in. – laterally unbraced length of the member
• Lc = 28.6 – effective length
• Fe = 3.52E+05 psi – elastic buckling stress
• Fcr = 34,490.89 psi – critical stress
• Ag = 3 in.2 – gross area
• Ω = 1.67 – safety factor (ASD)
F.3.1.6 Bolt shear

Rn = Fn·Ab (Eq. J3-1, AISC 360-16)

• Shear strength of one bolt:

• Rn/Ω = 68·0.442 / 2 = 15.03 kips/bolt
• Total shear strength of four bolts:
• Rn/Ω = 4 x 15.03 kips = 60.12 kips > 5.67 kips
where:

• Fnv = 68 ksi – nominal shear strength of fasteners (Table J3.2, AISC 360-16)
• Ab = 0.442 in.2 – nominal bolt area
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
F.3.1.7 Bolt bearing

The nominal bearing strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 2.4·d·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

• Rn =2.4·(3/4 in.)·(0.375 in.)·(58 ksi)

• Rn = 39.15 kips/bolt
• Rn/Ω = (4 bolts)·(39.15 kips) / 2
• Rn/Ω = 78.30 kips/connection > 5.67 kips
where:

• d = 3/4 in. – nominal bolt diameter

134
 • t = 0.375 in. – thickness of angle
• Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of angle
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
F.3.1.8 Bolt Tearout

The available tearout strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 1.2·lc·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)

• Lcsv = Lsv - dh
• Lcsv = 2.5 in. - 13/16 in. = 1.69 in.
• Rn-span = 1.2·(1.69 in.)·(0.375 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-span = 44.1 kips/bolt
• Lcev = Lev - dh /2
• Lcev = 1.25 in. - (13/16)/2 in. = 0.84 in.
• Rn-end = 1.2·(0.84 in.)·(0.375 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-end = 21.92 kips/bolt
• Rn/Ω = 2·[(44.1 kips) + (21.92 kips)] / 2 = 66.02 kips/connection > 5.67 kips
where:

• lc : clear distance
• dh = 13/16 in. – nominal hole dimension (3/4-in.-diameter bolt)
• Lsv = 2.5 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lev = 1.25 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Lcsv = 1.69 in. – clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = 0.84 in. – clear vertical edge distance
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
F.3.1.9 Block shear

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-5)

• Agv = (L-Lev)·(tp)
• Agv = 2·(2.5 in. + 1.25 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 2.81 in.2
• Anv = Agv - 2·(n-0.5)·(dh + 1/16 in.)·(tp)
• Anv = 2.81 in.2 - 2·(2-0.5)·(0.813 + 1/16 in.)·(0.375 in.)
• Anv = 1.83 in.2
• Ant = 2·[Leh - 0.5·( dh + 1/16 in.)]·(tp)
• Ant = 2·[1.25 in. - 0.5·(0.813 in. + 1/16 in.)]·(0.375 in.)
• Ant = 0.61 in.2
• Ubs = 1 (as the tension stress is uniform)
135
 • Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant
• Rn = 0.60·(58 kips/in.2)·(1.83 in.2) + 1·(58 kips/in.2)·(0.61 in.2) ≤ 0.60·(36 kips/in.2)·(2.81
in.2) + 1·(58 kips/in.2)·(0.61 in.2)
• Rn = 99.06 kips ≤ 96.08 kips
• Rn/Ω = (96.08 kips)/2
• Rn/Ω = 48.04 kips > 4.15 kips
where:

• Ubs = 1 – stress index for uniform tension stress

• Ant = 0.61 in.2 – net area subject to tension
• Agv = 2.81 in.2 – gross area subject to shear
• Anv = 1.83 in.2 – net area subject to shear
• Lev = 1.25 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Leh = 1.25 in. – horizontal edge distance of angle
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)

F.3.2 Angle (Column Side)

F.3.2.1 Shear yielding

Rn = 0.60·Fy·Agv (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-3)

• Agv = (8 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 3 in.2

• Rn/Ω = 0.60·(36 kips)·(3 in.2) / 1.5
• Rn/Ω = 43.2 kips > 4.15 kips
where:

• Agv = 3 in.2 – gross area subject to shear

• L = 8 in. – length of angle
• t = 0.375 in. – thickness of angle
• Ω = 1.5 – safety factor (ASD)
F.3.2.2 Shear rupture

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-4)

• Lh = dh + 1/16 (Section B4-3b, AISC Manual)

• Lh = 0.813 + 1/16 = 0.875 in.
• Le = L - n·Lh
• Le = 8 - 2·0.875 = 6.25 in.
• Anv = Le·tp
• Anv = (6.25 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 2.34 in.2
• Rn/Ω = 0.60·(58 kips)·(2.34 in.2) / 2
136
 • Rn/Ω = 40.72 kips > 4.15 kips
where:

• Anv = 2.34 in.2 – net area subject to shear, in.2

• Lh = 0.875 in. – hole dimension for tension and shear net area
• Le = 6.25 in. – effective length
• n=2 – number of the bolts
• t = 0.25 in. – thickness of angle
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
F.3.2.3 Tension capacity due prying action

Tc = Bc·Q (AISC Manual, Eq. 9-27)

a' = (a + d/2) ≤ (1.25·b + d/2)

a' = (1.5 in. + 0.75 in./2) ≤ (1.25·(2.31 in.) + 0.75 in./2)

a' = 1.875 in. ≤ 3.26 in.

a' = 1.875 in.

b' = b - d/2 = 2.31 in. – (0.75 in.)/2

b' = 1.94 in.

ρ = b'/a' = (1.94 in.)/(1.875 in.)

ρ = 1.03

p = L/n = (8 in.)/2 = 4 in.

δ = 1 - d'/p = 1 - (0.813 in.)/(4 in.)

δ = 0.80

Bc = Rn/Ω = Fnt·Ab/Ω

Bc = (90 ksi)·(0.442 in.2) / 2

Bc = 19.89 kips (per bolt)

tc = ((4·B·b')/(p·Fu/Ω)1/2

tc = [4·(19.89 kips)·(1.938 in.)/((4 in.)·(58 ksi)/1.67)]1/2

tc = 1.05 in.
137
α' = (1/(δ·(1 + ρ)))·((tc/tp)2 -1)

α' = (1/(0.80·(1 + 1.03)))·((1.05 in.)/(0.375 in.)2 -1)

α' = 4.25

Q = (tp/tc)2·(1 + δ)

Q = ((0.375 in.)/(1.05 in.))2·(1 + 0.8)

Q = 0.23

ΩTc = (2 bolts)·Bc·Q = 2·(19.89 kips)·(0.23)

ΩTc = 9.15 kips > 4.15 kips (Governs)

where:

• a =1.5 in. – distance from the bolt centerline to the edge of the fitting
• a' = 1.875 in. – distance for prying action
• b' = 1.94 in. – distance for prying action
• ρ = 1.03 – prying distances ratio
• δ = 0.80 – ratio of the net length at bolt line to gross length at the
face of the stem or leg of angle
• p = 4 in. – average pitch of the bolts
• tc = 1.05 in. – flange thickness
• tp = 0.375 in. – thickness of angle
• Bc = 29.84 kips – available tensile strength per bolt
• Q = 0.23 – prying action coefficient
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
F.3.3 Beam

F.3.3.1 Bolt bearing

rn = 2.4·d·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

• rn =2.4·(3/4 in.)·(0.515 in.)·(58 ksi)

• rn = 53.77 kips/bolt
• Rn/Ω = (3 bolts)·(53.77 kips) / 2
• Rn/Ω = 80.66 kips/connection > 5.67 kips OK
where:

• d = 3/4 in. – nominal bolt diameter

• t = 0.515 in. – thickness of the beam flange
138
 • Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of beam
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
F.3.3.2 Bolt tearout

The available tearout strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 1.2·lc·t ·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)

• Lcsv = 2.5 in. - 13/16 in. = 1.69 in.

• Lcev = [8.5 in. - 2·(2.5 in.) - (13/16) in.]/2 = 1.34 in.
• Rn-span = 1.2·(1.69 in.)·(0.515 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-span = 60.58 kips/bolt
• Rn-end = 1.2·(1.34 in.)·(0.515 in.)·(58 ksi)
• Rn-end = 47.10 kips/bolt
• Rn/Ω = 2·[·(60.58 kips) + (47.10 kips)] / 2 = 107.68 kips/connection > 5.67 kips OK
where:

• lc : clear distance
• dh = 13/16 in. – nominal hole dimension (3/4-in.-diameter bolt)
• Lsv = 2.5 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lcsv = 1.69 in. – clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = 1.34 in. – clear vertical edge distance
• t = 0.515 in. – thickness of the beam flange
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
F.3.3.3 Block shear

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-5)

• Agv = 2·(Ls-Lev)·(tp)
• Agv = 2·(2.5 in. + 1.75 in.)·(0.515 in.) = 4.38 in.2
• Anv = 2·(tp)·[ Lev + (n-1)·(Ls - (dh + 1/16 in.)) - (dh + 1/16 in.)/2)]
• Anv = 2·(0.515 in.)·(1.75 in. + (2-1)·(2.5 - 0.813 in. - 1/16 in.)-( 0.813 in. + 1/16 in.)/2)
• Anv = 3.02 in.2
• Ant = [b- (n-1)·( dh + 1/16 in.)]·(tp)
• Ant = [3.25 in. - 1·(0.813 in. + 1/16 in.)]·(0.515 in.)
• Ant = 1.23 in.2
• Ubs = 1 (as the tension stress is uniform)
• Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant
• Rn = 0.60·(58 kips/in.2)·(3.02 in.2) + 1·(58 kips/in.2)·(4.38 in.2) ≤ 0.60·(36 kips/in.2)·(4.38
in.2) + 1·(58 kips/in.2)·(1.23 in.2)
139
 • Rn = 359.14 kips ≤ 165.95 kips
• Rn/Ω = (165.95 kips) / 2
• Rn/Ω = 82.98 kips > 5.67 kips OK
where:

• Ubs = 1 – stress index for uniform tension stress

• Ant = 1.23 in.2 – net area subject to tension
• Agv = 4.38 in.2 – gross area subject to shear
• Anv = 3.02 in.2 – net area subject to shear
• Lev = 1.75 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Ls = 2.5 in. – width of angle
• t = 0.515 in. – thickness of the beam flange
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
F.3.3.4 Flexural strength

Mn = Sx·Fu·Afn/Afg when Fu·Afn < Yt·Fy·Afg (AISC 360-16, Eq. F13-1)

Otherwise, the limit state of tensile rupture does not apply

• Afg = (bf)·(tf)
• Afg = (6.77 in.)·(0.515 in.) = 3.49 in.2
• Afn = Afg - n·(dh + 1/16 in.)·(tp)
• Afn = 3.49 in.2 - 2·(0.813 in. + 1/16 in.)·(0.515 in.) = 2.59 in.2
• Fy/Fu = (36 ksi)/(58 ksi) = 0.62 < 0.8 therefore Yt = 1.0
• 2
Fu·Afn = (58 ksi)·(2.59 in. ) = 150.22 kips
• Yt·Fy·Afg = 1.0·(36 ksi)·(3.49 in.2) = 125.64 kips
• Fu·Afn = 150.22 kips < Yt·Fy·Afg = 125.64 kips NOT OK
• 3
Mn/Ω = Fy·Sx/Ω = (36 ksi)·(61.5 in. ) / 12 / 1.67
• Mn/Ω = 110.48 kips-ft > 6.67 kips-ft OK
where:

• Afg = 3.49 in.2 – gross area of tension flange (Section B4.3a)

• Afn = 2.59 in.2 – net area of tension flange (Section B4.3b)
• Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile strength
• Fy = 36 ksi – specified minimum yield strength
• Yt = 1.0 – beam flexural factor (= 1.0 for Fy/Fu ≤ 0.8, otherwise = 1.1)
• bf = 6.77 in. – beam flange width
• tf = 0.515 in. – beam flange thickness
• Sx = 61.5 in.3 – minimum elastic section modulus of beam
• Ω = 1.67 – safety factor (ASD)

140
F.3.4 Column

F.3.4.1 Web panel zone shear

Rn = 0.60·Fy·dc·tw for Pr < 0.40·Pc (AISC 360-16, Eq. J10-9)

• Py = Fy·Ag = (36 ksi)·(28.2 in.2) = 1015.2 kips

• Pr = 0 < 0.40·Py = 0.40·(1,015.2 kips) = 406.08 kips
• Rn = 0.60·Fy·dc·tw
• Rn = 0.60·(36 ksi)·(12.7 in.)·(0.55 in.) = 150.88 kips
• Rn/Ω = (150.88 kips) / 1.67 = 90.35 kips > 4.15 kips
where:

• Ag = 28.2 in.2 – column cross-sectional area

• Pr = 0 kips – required axial strength
• Py = 1015.2 kips – axial yield strength of the column
• dc = 12.7 in. – depth of column
• tw = 0.55 in. – thickness of column web
• Fy = 36 ksi – specified minimum yield strength
• Ω = 1.67 – safety factor (ASD)
F.3.4.2 Flange local bending

Rn = 6.25·(Fyf)·(tf)2 (AISC 360-16, Eq. J10-1)

• Rn = 6.25·(36 ksi)·(0.9 in.2)2

• Rn = 182.25 kips
• Rn/Ω = (182.25 kips) / 1.67
• Rn/Ω =109.13 kips > 4.15 kips
where:

• Fyf = 36 ksi – specified minimum yield stress of the flange

• tf = 0.9 in.2 – thickness of the column flange
• Ω = 1.67 – safety factor (ASD)
F.3.4.3 Web local yielding

Rn = (Fyw)·(tw)·(5·k + lb) (AISC 360-16, Eq. J10-2)

• Rn = (36 ksi)·(0.55 in.)·(5·(1.5 in.) + 0.75 in.)

• Rn =163.35 kips
• Rn/Ω = 163.35 kips / 1.5 = 108.9 kips > 4.15 kips
where:
141
 • Fyw = 36 ksi – specified minimum yield strength of the web material
• tw = 0.55 in.2 – thickness of column web
• k = 1.5 in. – distance from outer face of the flange to the web toe of the fillet
• lb = 0.75 in. – length of bearing (not less than k for end beam reactions)
• Ω = 1.5 – safety factor (ASD)
F.3.4.4 Web local crippling

Rn = 0.80·(tw)2·[1+3·(lb/d)(tw/tf)1.5]·[E·(Fyw)·(tf)/(tw)]1/2·Qf (AISC 360-16, Eq. J10-4)

• Rn = 0.80·(0.55 in.)2·[1+3·(0.9 in.2/12.7 in.)(0.55 in.2/0.9 in.2)1.5]·[2.9E+7·(36 ksi)·(0.9

in.2)/(0.55)]1/2·(1.0) = 343.08 kips
• Rn/Ω = (343.08 kips) / 2 = 171.54 kips > 4.15 kips
where:

• Fyw = 36 ksi – specified minimum yield strength of the web material

• tw = 0.55 in. 2
– thickness of column web
• tf = 0.9 in.2 – thickness of column flange
• lb = 0.75 in. – length of bearing (not less than k for end beam reactions)
• d = 12.7 in. – full nominal depth of the member
• E = 2.9E+7 – Elastic Modulus
• Qf = 1.0 – 1.0 for wide-flange sections and for HSS (connecting surface) in
tension = as given in Table K3.2 (AISC 360-16) for all other HSS conditions
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)

142
Appendix G. IDEA StatiCa Model

Figure G.1: IDEA StatiCa Test No. 14S1 (LRFD)

Figure G.2: IDEA StatiCa Test No. 14S2 (LRFD)

Figure G.3: IDEA StatiCa Test No. 14S3 (LRFD)

143
Figure G.4: IDEA StatiCa Test No. 14S4 (LRFD)

Figure G.5: IDEA StatiCa Test No. 8S1 (LRFD)

Figure G.6: IDEA StatiCa Test No. 8S2 (LRFD)

144
Figure G.7: IDEA StatiCa Test No. 8S3 (LRFD)

Figure G.8: IDEA StatiCa Test No. 8S4 (LRFD)

Figure G.9: IDEA StatiCa Test No. 8S5 (LRFD)

145
Figure G.10: IDEA StatiCa Test No. 8S6 (LRFD)

Figure G.11: IDEA StatiCa Test No. 14S1 (ASD)

146
Appendix H. Comparison of IDEA StatiCa and ABAQUS Models

Figure H.1: Predicted stress between IDEA StatiCa and ABAQUS

• Note: In ABAQUS, node set was defined in different positions (e.g., shear plains) in order
to extract data (i.e., nodal forces, shear forces, etc.) from the model and calculate the bolt
loads.

147
Appendix I. LRFD Strength Calculations for Rigid Connection Test Specimen
(Test No. BFP)

I.1 Loading and Assumptions

It is assumed that the double web-angle carries the applied shear force and the top- and seat-angle
resist the applied moment.

Vertical shear:

PD = 10 kips (dead load)

PL = 30 kips (live load)

Strong-axis moment:

The shear loads are applied 6 in. away from the boltline.

MD = (10 kips)·(6 in.) = 60 kips-in. (dead load)

ML = (60 kips)·(6 in.) = 180 kips-in. (live load)

I.1.1 LRFD Load Demand or Design Loads

According to the Load and Resistance Factored Design (LRFD) procedure (AISC 360-16 or AISC
Manual 2017), LRFD design load, factored load or demand, Pu under gravity loads is:

Pu = 1.2PD + 1.6PL (LRFD)

Pu = 1.2·(10 kips) + 1.6·(30 kips) = 60 kips (LRFD)

Mu = 1.2MD + 1.6ML (LRFD)

Mu = 1.2·(60 kips) + 1.6·(180 kips) = 360 kips-in. (LRFD)

Then, the required strength, Ru using the LRFD load combinations will be set equal to the design
shear force, Vu applied on the connection. Then, for the cantilever beam and connection specimen:

Ru = Vu = Pu = 1.2PD + 1.6PL (LRFD)

I.2 Properties of Test Specimen (Test No. BFP)

For the following analysis, consider:

o tw = web thickness of beam

o d = depth of beam
o T = clear distance between web fillets
148
 o Fy = specified minimum yield strength
o Fu = specified minimum tensile strength
o tf = flange thickness of column
o L = length of the angles

• Beam: W30x108
o Specified minimum yield strength, Fy = 50 ksi ASTM A992
o Specified minimum tensile strength, Fu = 65 ksi ASTM A992
o Web thickness of beam, tw = 0.545 in.
o Width of beam, b = 10.475 in.
o Flange thickness of beam, tf = 0.76 in.
o Depth of beam, d = 29.83 in.
clear distance between web fillets, T = 26.5 in. (Table 1-1, AISC Manual)

• Column: W14x233
o Specified minimum yield strength, Fy = 50 ksi ASTM A992
o Specified minimum tensile strength, Fu = 65 ksi ASTM A992
o Flange thickness of column, tf = 1.72 in.
o Web thickness of column, tw = 1.07 in.
o Depth of column, d = 16.04 in. (Table 1-1, AISC Manual)

• Flange plates: 1.5’’ x 12’’ x 24’’

o ASTM A36 Fy = 36 ksi Fu = 58 ksi
o Number of bolts: 2x7
o Diameter of bolts: 1 in.
o Type of bolts: A325-X (threads are excluded)

• Web plate: 23.5’’ x 4.5’’ x 3/8’’

o ASTM A36 Fy = 36 ksi Fu = 58 ksi
o Number of bolts: 8
o Bolt spacing = 3 in.
o Diameter of bolts: ¾ in.
o Type of bolts: A325-X (threads are excluded)
I.3. Single Plate Web Connection Geometric Checks
For the following analysis, consider:
o tang = angle thickness
o Lmin = minimum angle length
o Lmax = maximum angle length
o Lemin = minimum edge distance
o Lev = vertical edge distance of angle
o Leh = horizontal edge distance of angle
149
 o Lsvmin = minimum vertical center to center bolt distance
o Lsv = vertical center to center bolt distance
o Lsmax = maximum center to center bolt distance
o Lwmin = minimum weld length
o d = bolt diameter
o T = clear distance between web fillets of the beam
I.3.1 Plate Length

Lmin = T/2 (Page 10-104, AISC Manual)

• Lmin = (26.5 in.)/2 = 13.25 in.

• L = 23.5 in. ≥ Lmin = 13.25 in. OK
Lmax = T (Page 10-9, AISC Manual)

• Lmax = 26.5 in.

• L = 23.5 in. ≤ Lmax = 26.5 in. OK
where:
• T = 26.5 in. – clear distance between web fillets of the beam
• Lmin = 6.14 in. – minimum plate length
• Lmax = 12.27 in. – maximum plate length
I.3.2 Plate Edge Distance Check

Lemin = 1 in. for bolt diameter of ¾ in. (Table J3.4, AISC 360-16)

• Lev = 1.25 in. > Lemin = 1 in. OK

• Leh = 1.25 in. > Lemin = 1 in. OK
where:
• Lemin = 1 in. – minimum edge distance
• Lev = 1.25 in. – vertical edge distance of plate
• Leh = 1.25 in. – horizontal edge distance of plate
I.3.3 Plate Bolt Spacing Check

Lsvmin = (8/3)·d (Section J3.3, AISC 360-16)

• Lsvmin = (8/3)·(¾ in.)

• Lsvmin = 2 in.
• Lsv = 3 in. > Lsvmin = 2 in. OK
Lsmax = minimum of (24·tang) and 12 in. (Section J3.5, AISC 360-16)

• Lsmax = 24·(0.375 in.)

150
 • Lsmax = 9 in.
• Lsv = 3 in. < Lsmax = 9 in. OK
where:
• Lsvmin = 2 in. – minimum vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lsv = 3 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lsmax = 6 in. – maximum center to center bolt distance
• d = ¾ in. – bolt diameter
I.3.4 Plate Edge Distance Check

Lemin = 1 in. for bolt diameter of ¾ in. (Table J3.4, AISC 360-16)

• Lev = 1.25 in. > Lemin = 1 in. OK

• Leh = 1.25 in. > Lemin = 1 in. OK
where:
• Lemin = 1 in. – minimum edge distance
• Lev = 1.50 in. – vertical edge distance of plate
• Leh = 1.50 in. – horizontal edge distance of plate
I.3.5 Weld Size Check

wmin = (5/8)·(tang) for tang = 3/8 in. (Page 10-87, AISC Manual)

• wmin = (5/8)·(3/8) = 0.23

• w = 0.25 in. > wmin = 0.23 in. OK
where:
• w = ¼ in. – weld size
• wmax = 0.31 in. – maximum weld size
• wmin = 0.19 in. – minimum weld size
• tang = 3/8 in. – angle thickness
I.3.6 Weld Length Check

Lwmin = 4·w (Section J2.2b, AISC 360-16)

• Lwmin = 4·0.25 in.

• Lwmin = 1 in.
• Lw = 23.5 in. > Lwmin = 1 in.
where:
• Lwmin = 1 in. – minimum weld length
• Lw = 23.5 in. – weld length

151
I.4. Single Plate Web Connection LRFD Design Checks
In this section, design of the plate, bolts, and beam are checked for the single plate web connection.
The LRFD design strength Rn is calculated following the requirements of AISC Construction
Manual (2017) and AISC 360-16. The calculated design strength Rn is then compared with the
design demand Ru calculated from structural analysis using the factored external loads.

For single web plate, bolt shear, bolt bearing, bolt tearout, shear yielding, shear rupture, block
shear, and weld failure limit states are checked in Sections F.4.1.1 through F.4.1.7.

For beam, bolt bearing, bolt tearout, and shear yielding failure limit states are checked in Sections
F.4.2.1 through F.4.2.3.

For the following analysis, consider:

o Fnv = nominal shear strength of fasteners

o Ab = nominal bolt area
o  = strength factor (LRFD)
o Fnt = nominal tensile strength of fasteners
o d = nominal bolt diameter
o t = thickness of the beam
o Fu = specified minimum tensile strength of beam
o lc = clear distance
o dh = nominal hole dimension
o Lsv = vertical center to center bolt distance
o Lev = vertical edge distance of angle
o Lcsv = clear vertical distance between bolts
o Lcev = clear vertical edge distance
o Anv = net area subject to shear, in.2
o Lh = hole dimension for tension and shear net area
o Le = effective length
o n = number of the bolts
o Ubs = stress index for uniform tension stress
o Ant = net area subject to tension
o Agv = gross area subject to shear
o Anv = net area subject to shear
o Lev = vertical edge distance of angle
o Leh = horizontal edge distance of angle
o L = length of the angles
I.4.1 Web Plate
I.4.1.1 Bolt shear
Rn = Fn·Ab (Eq. J3-1, AISC 360-16)

152
 • Shear strength of one bolt:
• Rn = 0.75·68·0.442 = 22.54 kips/bolt
• Total shear strength of eight bolts:
• Rn = (8 bolts)·22.54 kips = 180.32 kips > 60 kips OK

where:

• Fnv = 68 ksi – nominal shear strength of fasteners (Table J3.2, AISC 360-16)
• Ab = 0.442 in.2 – nominal bolt area
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
I.4.1.2 Bolt bearing

The nominal bearing strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 2.4·d·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

• Rn =2.4·(3/4 in.)·(0.375 in.)·(65 ksi)

• Rn = 43.88 kips/bolt
• Rn = 0.75·(8 bolts)·43.88 kips
• Rn = 263.25 kips/connection > 60 kips OK

where:

• d = 3/4 in. – nominal bolt diameter

• t = 0.375 in. – thickness of angle
• Fu = 65 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of plate
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
I.4.1.3 Bolt tearout

The available tearout strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 1.2·lc·t ·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)

• Lcsv = Lsv - dh
• Lcsv = 3 in. - 13/16 in. = 2.19 in.
• Rn-span = 1.2·(2.19 in.)·(0.375 in.)·(65 ksi)
• Rn-span = 64.06 kips/bolt
• Lcev = Lev - dh /2
• Lcev = 1.25 in. - (13/16)/2 in. = 0.84 in.
• Rn-end = 1.2·(0.84 in.)·(0.375 in.)·(65 ksi)
• Rn-end = 24.57 kips/bolt
153
 • Rn = 0.75·[ 7·(64.06 kips) + (24.57 kips)]
• Rn = 465.30 kips/conn. > 60 kips OK

where:

• lc : clear distance
• dh = 13/16 in. – nominal hole dimension (3/4-in.-diameter bolt)
• Lsv = 3 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lev = 1.25 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Lcsv = 2.19 in. – clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = 0.84 in. – clear vertical edge distance
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
I.4.1.4 Shear yielding

Rn = 0.60·Fy·Agv  = 1.00 (LRFD) (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-3)

• Agv = (23.5 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 8.81 in.2

• Rn = 1.00·0.60·(50 kips)·(8.81 in.2)
• Rn = 264.30 kips > 60 kips OK
where:

• Agv = 8.81 in.2 – gross area subject to shear

•  = 1.00 – strength factor (LRFD)
• L = 23.5 in. – length of angle
• t = 0.375 in. – thickness of angle
• Fy = 50 ksi – specified minimum yield strength of plate
I.4.1.5 Shear rupture

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-4)

• Lh = dh + 1/16 (Section B4-3b, AISC Manual)

• Lh = 0.813 + 1/16 = 0.875 in.
• Le = L - n·Lh
• Le = 23.5 - 8·0.875 = 16.5 in.
• Anv = Le·tp
• Anv = (16.5 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 6.19 in.2
• Rn = (0.75)·0.60·(65 kips)·(6.19 in.2)
• Rn = 181.06 kips > 60 kips OK
where:

• Anv = 6.19 in.2 – net area subject to shear, in.2

154
 • Lh = 0.875 in. – hole dimension for tension and shear net area
• Le = 16.5 in. – effective length
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
• n=8 – number of the bolts
• t = 0.375 in. – thickness of angle
I.4.1.6 Block shear

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-5)

• Agv = (L-Lev)·(tp)
• Agv = (23.5 in. - 1.25 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 8.34 in.2
• Anv = Agv - (n-0.5)·(dh + 1/16 in.)·(tp)
• Anv = 8.34 in.2 - (8-0.5)·(0.813 + 1/16 in.)·(0.375 in.)
• Anv = 5.88 in.2
• Ant = [Leh - 0.5·( dh + 1/16 in.)]·(tp)
• Ant = [1.5 in. - 0.5·(0.813 in. + 1/16 in.)]·(0.375 in.)
• Ant = 0.39 in.2
• Ubs = 1 (as the tension stress is uniform)
• Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant
• Rn = 0.60·(65 kips/in.2)·(5.88 in.2) + 1·(65 kips/in.2)·(0.39 in.2) ≤ 0.60·(50 kips/in.2)·(8.34
in.2) + 1·(65 kips/in.2)·(0.39 in.2)
• Rn = 254.67 kips ≤ 275.55 kips
• Rn = 0.75·(254.67 kips)
• Rn = 191.0 kips > 60 kips OK
where:

• Ubs = 1 – Stress index for uniform tension stress

• Ant = 0.39 in.2 – net area subject to tension
• Agv = 8.34 in.2 – gross area subject to shear
• Anv = 5.88 in.2 – net area subject to shear
• Lev = 1.25 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Leh = 1.5 in. – horizontal edge distance of angle
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
I.4.1.7 Weld Shear (web plate to the column flange)

Rn = (2 welds)·(0.75)·[(FEXX)·0.6·(D/16)·L·(21/2/2)] (Eq. 8-2a/8-2b, AISC Manual)

• Rn = (2 welds)·(1.392·D·L)
• Rn = (2 welds)·(1.392·4·23.5)
• Rn = 261.70 kips > 60 kips OK

155
where:

• D=4 – number of sixteenths-of-an-inch in the weld size

• L = 23.5 in. – length of the angles
• FEXX = 70 ksi – filler metal electrode classification strength
I.4.2 Beam
I.4.2.1 Bolt bearing

The nominal bearing strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 2.4·d·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

• Rn =2.4·(3/4 in.)·(0.545 in.)·(65 ksi)

• Rn = 63.77 kips/bolt
• Rn = 0.75·(8 bolts)·63.77 kips
• Rn = 382.59 kips/connection > 60 kips OK

where:

• d = 3/4 in. – nominal bolt diameter

• tw = 0.545 in. – thickness of beam web
• Fu = 65 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of angle
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
I.4.2.2 Bolt tearout

The available tearout strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 1.2·lc·t ·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)

• Lcsv = Lsv - dh
• Lcsv = 3 in. - 13/16 in. = 2.19 in.
• Rn-span = 1.2·(2.19 in.)·(0.545 in.)·(65 ksi)
• Rn-span = 93.10 kips/bolt
• Lcev = Lev - dh /2
• Lcev = 4.4 in. - (13/16)/2 in. = 3.99 in.
• Rn-end = 1.2·(3.99 in.)·(0.545 in.)·(65 ksi)
• Rn-end = 169.62 kips/bolt
• Rn = 0.75·[ 7·(93.10 kips) + (169.62 kips)]
• Rn = 615.98 kips/conn. > 60 kips OK

where:
156
 • lc : clear distance
• dh = 13/16 in. – nominal hole dimension (3/4-in.-diameter bolt)
• Lsv = 3 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lev = 1.25 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Lcsv = 2.19 in. – clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = 3.99 in. – clear vertical edge distance
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
• tw = 0.545 in. – thickness of beam web
• Fu = 65 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of beam
I.4.2.3 Shear yielding

Rn = 0.60·Fy·Agv  = 1.00 (LRFD) (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-3)

• Agv = (29.83 in.)·(0.545 in.) = 16.26 in.2

• Rn = 1.00·0.60·(50 kips)·(16.26 in.2)
• Rn = 487.72 kips > 60 kips OK

where:

• Agv = 16.26 in.2 – gross area subject to shear

•  = 1.00 – strength factor (LRFD)
• d = 29.83 in. – beam depth
• tw = 0.545 in. – thickness of beam web
• Fy = 50 ksi – specified minimum yield strength
I.5. Flange Plate Connection Geometric Checks
For the following analysis, consider:
o Lemin = minimum edge distance
o Lel = longitudinal edge distance of angle
o Let = transverse edge distance of angle
o Lsmax = maximum center to center bolt distance
o d = bolt diameter
o Lst = transfer center to center bolt distance
o Lsl = longitudinal center to center bolt distance
I.5.1 Plate Edge Distance Check

Lemin = 1 in. for bolt diameter of 1 in. (Table J3.4, AISC 360-16)

• Lel = 3 in. > Lemin = 1.25 in. OK

• Let = 3 in. > Lemin = 1.25 in. OK
where:

157
 • Lemin = 1.25 in. – minimum edge distance
• Lel = 3 in. – longitudinal edge distance of angle
• Let = 3 in. – transverse edge distance of angle
I.5.2 Plate Bolt Spacing Check

Lsmin = (8/3)·d (Section J3.3, AISC 360-16)

• Lsvmin = (8/3)·(1 in.)

• Lsvmin = 2.67 in.
• Lst = 6 in. > Lsvmin = 2.67 in. OK
• Lsl = 3 in. > Lsvmin = 2.67 in. OK
Lsmax = minimum of (24·tp) and 12 in. (Section J3.5, AISC 360-16)

• Lsmax = 12 in. < 24·(0.76 in.) = 18.24 in.

• Lsmax = 12 in.
• Lst = 6 in. < Lsmax = 12 in. OK
• Lsl = 3 in. < Lsmax = 12 in. OK
where:
• Lst = 6 in. – transfer center to center bolt distance
• Lsl = 3 in. – longitudinal center to center bolt distance
• Lsmin = 2.67 in. – minimum center to center bolt distance
• Lsmax = 12 in. – maximum center to center bolt distance
• d = 1 in. – bolt diameter
I.6. Flange Plate Connection LRFD Design Checks
In this section, design of the flange plates, bolts, beam, and column are checked for the flange plate
connection. The LRFD design strength Rn is calculated following the requirements of AISC
Construction Manual (2017) and AISC 360-16. The calculated design strength Rn is then
compared with the design demand Ru calculated from structural analysis using the factored external
loads.

Flange bolt shear force and flange tension force corresponding the design moment are calculated
in Sections F.6.1.1 and F.6.1.2.

For flange plates, bolt shear, bolt bearing, bolt tearout, tensile yielding, tensile rupture, block shear,
and compression failure limit states are checked in Sections F.6.2.1 through F.6.2.7.

For beam, bolt bearing, bolt tearout, and block shear, and flexural failure limit states are checked
in Sections F.6.3.1 through F.6.3.4.

158
For column, web panel zone, flange local bending, web local yielding and web local crippling are
checked in Sections F.6.4.1 through F.6.4.4.
For the following analysis, consider:

• dm = depth of beam
• Puf = flange bolt shear
• Fnv = nominal shear strength of fasteners
• Ab = nominal bolt area
• L = length of angle
• t = flange thickness
• lc = clear distance
• dh = nominal hole dimension
• Lsv = vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lev = vertical edge distance of beam
• Lcsv = clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = clear vertical edge distance
• Ubs = stress index for uniform tension stress
• Ant = net area subject to tension
• Agv = gross area subject to tension
• Anv = net area subject to tension
• Lev = vertical edge distance of plate
• Leh = horizontal edge distance of plate
•  = strength factor (LRFD)
• g = gage between transfer bolts of plate
• b = width of plate
• Afg = gross area of tension flange (Section B4.3a)
• Afn = net area of tension flange (Section B4.3b)
• Fu = specified minimum tensile strength
• Fy = specified minimum yield strength
• Yt = beam flexural factor (= 1.0 for Fy/Fu ≤ 0.8, otherwise = 1.1)
• bf = beam flange width
• tf = beam flange thickness
• Sx = minimum elastic section modulus of beam
• Ag = column cross-sectional area
• Pr = required axial strength using LRFD
• Py = axial yield strength of the column
• dc = depth of column
• tw = thickness of column web
I.6.1 Design Forces
I.6.1.1 Flange Bolt Shear Force
159
The moment arm between flange forces is equal to the depth of the beam.
Puf = Mu/dm
• Puf = 360 kips-in. / 29.83 in. = 12.07 kips
where:
• dm = 29.83 in. – depth of beam
• Puf = 12.07 kips – flange bolt shear
I.6.1.2 Flange Tension Force
The moment arm between flange forces is equal to the depth of the beam plus one plate thickness.
Puf = Mu/(d + t)
• Puf = 360 kips-in. / (29.83 in. + 1.5 in.) = 11.49 kips
where:
• dm = 29.83 in – depth of beam
• t = 1.5 in. – plate thickness
• Puf = 11.49 kips – flange tension force
I.6.2 Flange Plate
I.6.2.1 Bolt shear
Rn = Fn·Ab (Eq. J3-1, AISC 360-16)
• Shear strength of one bolt:
• Rn = 0.75·84·0.785 = 49.46 kips/bolt
• Total shear strength of eight bolts:
• Rn = (14 bolts)·49.46 kips = 692.44 kips > 12.07 kips OK
where:

• Fnv = 84 ksi – nominal shear strength of fasteners (Table J3.2, AISC 360-16)
• Ab = 0.785 in.2 – nominal bolt area
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
I.6.2.2 Bearing

The nominal bearing strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 2.4·d·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

• Rn = 2.4·(1 in.)·(1.5 in.)·(65 ksi)

• Rn = 234 kips/bolt
• Rn = 0.75·(14 bolts)·234 kips
• Rn = 2457.0 kips/connection > 12.07 kips OK
160
where:

• d = 1 in. – nominal bolt diameter

• t = 1.5 in. – plate thickness
• Fu = 65 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of plate
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
I.6.2.3 Tearout

The available tearout strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 1.2·lc·t ·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)

• Lcsv = Lsv - dh
• Lcsv = 3 in. - 1.125 in. = 1.875 in.
• Rn-span = 1.2·(1.875 in.)·(1.5 in.)·(65 ksi)
• Rn-span = 219.38 kips/bolt
• Lcev = Lev - dh /2
• Lcev = 3 in. - (1.125 in.)/2 = 2.44 in.
• Rn-end = 1.2·(2.44 in.)·(1.5 in.)·(65 ksi)
• Rn-end = 285.48 kips/bolt
• Rn = 0.75·(2)·[ 6·(219.38 kips) + (285.48 kips)]
• Rn = 2402.64 kips/conn. > 12.07 kips OK
where:

• lc : clear distance
• dh = 1.125 in. – nominal hole dimension (1-in.-diameter bolt)
• Lsv = 3 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lev = 3 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Lcsv = 1.875 in. – clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = 2.44 in. – clear vertical edge distance
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
I.6.2.4 Tensile yielding

Rn = 0.60·Fy·Agv  = 1.00 (LRFD) (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-3)

• Agv = (12 in.)·(1.5 in.) = 18 in.2

• Rn = 0.90·(50 kips)·(18 in.2)
• Rn = 810.0 kips > 11.49 kips OK
where:

161
 • Agv = 18 in.2 – gross area subject to shear
•  = 0.90 – strength factor (LRFD)
• L = 12 in. – length of angle
• t = 1.5 in. – flange thickness
• Fy = 50 ksi – specified minimum yield strength of plate
I.6.2.5 Tension rupture

Rn = Fu·Ae (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-2)

• Ag = (12 in.)·(1.5 in.) = 18 in.2

• Lh = dh + 1/16 (Section B4-3b, AISC Manual)
• Lh = 1.125 + 1/16 = 1.19 in.
• An = (L - n·Lh)·tp
• An = (12 in. - 2·1.19 in.)·(1.5 in.) = 14.44 in.2
• Ae = An ≤ 0.85Ag = 15.3 in.2 (AISC 360-16, Sec. J4-1)
• Ae = 14.44 in.2
• Rn = (65 ksi)·(14.44 in.2) = 938.6 kips
• Rn = 0.75·(938.6 ksi) = 703.95 kips > 11.49 kips OK
where:

• Ag = 18 in.2 – gross area

• Ae = 14.44 in.2 – effective net area
• Lh = 1.19 in. – hole dimension
• Fu = 65 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of plate
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
I.6.2.6 Block shear

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-5)

• Agv = (L-Lev)·(t)
• Agv = (2 planes)·(24 in. - 3 in.)·(1.5 in.) = 63 in.2
• Anv = Agv - (n-0.5)·(dh + 1/16 in.)·(t)
• Anv = 63 in.2 - (2 planes)·(7-0.5)·(1.125 + 1/16 in.)·(1.5 in.)
• Anv = 39.84 in.2
• Ant = [min(g, b - g) - 1.0·( dh + 1/16 in.)]·(t)
• Ant = [6 in. - 1.0·(1.125 in. + 1/16 in.)]·(1.5 in.)
• Ant = 7.22 in.2
• Ubs = 1 (as the tension stress is uniform)
• Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant
• Rn = 0.60·(65 kips/in.2)·(39.84 in.2) + 1·(65 kips/in.2)·(7.22 in.2) ≤ 0.60·(50 kips/in.2)·(63
in.2) + 1·(65 kips/in.2)·(7.22 in.2)
162
 • Rn = 2023.06 kips ≤ 2359.30 kips
• Rn = 0.75·(2023.06 kips)
• Rn = 1517.30 kips > 11.49 kips OK
where:

• Ubs = 1 – Stress index for uniform tension stress

• Ant = 7.22 in.2 – net area subject to tension
• Agv = 63 in.2 – gross area subject to tension
• Anv = 39.84 in.2 – net area subject to tension
• Lev = 3 in. – vertical edge distance of plate
• Leh = 3 in. – horizontal edge distance of plate
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
• g = 6 in. – gage between transfer bolts of plate
• b = 12 in. – width of plate
I.6.2.7 Compression

Pn = Fy·Ag when Lc/r ≤ 25 (AISC 360-16, Sec. J4-4)

• r = tp/(12)1/2 = 1.5 in./(12)1/2

• r = 0.43 in.
• Lc = K·L/r = 0.65·(3 in.)/(0.43 in.)
• Lc = 4.43 < 25 NOT OK
• Ag = Lp·tp = (12 in.)·(1.5 in.)
• Ag = 18 in.2
• Pn = ·Fy·Ag = 0.9·(50 ksi)·(18 in.2)
• Pn = 810.0 kips > 11.49 kips OK
where:

• K = 0.65 – effective length factor

• L = 3 in. – distance between adjacent bolt holes
• Lc = 4.43 – effective length
• Ag = 18 in.2 – gross area
•  = 0.9 – strength factor (LRFD)
I.6.3 Beam

I.6.3.1 Bearing

The nominal bearing strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 2.4·d·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

163
 • Rn = 2.4·(1 in.)·(0.76 in.)·(65 ksi)
• Rn = 118.56 kips/bolt
• Rn = 0.75·(14 bolts)·118.56 kips
• Rn = 1244.88 kips/connection > 12.07 kips OK
where:

• d = 1 in. – nominal bolt diameter

• tp = 0.76 in. – thickness of beam flange
• Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of beam
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
I.6.3.2 Tearout

The available tearout strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 1.2·lc·t ·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)

• Lcsv = Lsv - dh
• Lcsv = 3 in. - 1.125 in. = 1.875 in.
• Rn-span = 1.2·(1.875 in.)·(0.76 in.)·(65 ksi)
• Rn-span = 111.15 kips/bolt
• Lcev = Lev - dh /2
• Lcev = 2 in. - (1.125 in.)/2 = 1.44 in.
• Rn-end = 1.2·(1.44 in.)·(0.76 in.)·(65 ksi)
• Rn-end = 85.22 kips/bolt
• Rn = 0.75·(2)·[ 6·(111.15 kips) + (85.22 kips)]
• Rn = 1128.18 kips/conn. > 12.07 kips OK
where:

• lc : clear distance
• dh = 1.125 in. – nominal hole dimension (1-in.-diameter bolt)
• Lsv = 3 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lev = 2 in. – vertical edge distance of beam
• Lcsv = 1.875 in. – clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = 2.44 in. – clear vertical edge distance
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
I.6.3.3 Block shear

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-5)

• Agv = (Lev+(n-1)·s)·(t)
164
 • Agv = (2 planes)·(2 in. +(7-1)·3 in.)·(0.76 in.) = 30.4 in.2
• Anv = Agv - (n-0.5)·(dh + 1/16 in.)·(t)
• Anv = 30.4 in.2 - (2)·(7-0.5)·(1.125 + 1/16 in.)·(0.76 in.)
• Anv = 18.67 in.2
• Ant = [(b - g) - 1.0·( dh + 1/16 in.)]·(t)
• Ant = [(10.5 in. - 6 in.) - 1.0·(1.125 in. + 1/16 in.)]·(0.76 in.)
• Ant = 2.52 in.2
• Ubs = 1 (as the tension stress is uniform)
• Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant
• Rn = 0.60·(65 kips/in.2)·(18.67 in.2) + 1·(65 kips/in.2)·(2.52 in.2) ≤ 0.60·(50 kips/in.2)·(30.4
in.2) + 1·(65 kips/in.2)·(2.52 in.2)
• Rn = 891.93 kips ≤ 1075.8 kips
• Rn = 0.75·(891.93 kips)
• Rn = 668.95 kips > 12.07 kips OK
where:

• Ubs = 1 – Stress index for uniform tension stress

• Ant = 2.52 in.2 – net area subject to tension
• Agv = 30.4 in.2 – gross area subject to tension
• Anv = 18.67 in.2 – net area subject to tension
• Lev = 2 in. – vertical edge distance of plate
• Leh = 3 in. – horizontal edge distance of plate
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
• g = 6 in. – gage between transfer bolts of plate
• b = 10.5 in. – width of beam flange
• s = 3 in. – spacing between bolts
I.6.3.4 Flexural strength

Mn = Sx·Fu·Afn/Afg when Fu·Afn < Yt·Fy·Afg (AISC 360-16, Eq. F13-1)

Otherwise, the limit state of tensile rupture does not apply

• Afg = (bf)·(tf)
• Afg = (10.5 in.)·(0.76 in.) = 7.98 in.2
• Afn = Afg - n·(dh + 1/16 in.)·(tp)
• Afn = 7.98 in.2 - 2·(1.125 in. + 1/16 in.)·(0.76 in.) = 6.18 in.2
• Fy/Fu = (50 ksi)/(65 ksi) = 0.77 < 0.8 therefore Yt = 1.0
• 2
Fu·Afn = (65 ksi)·(6.18 in. ) = 401.7 kips
• Yt·Fy·Afg = 1.0·(50 ksi)·(7.98 in.2) = 399 kips
• Fu·Afn = 401.7 kips < Yt·Fy·Afg = 399 kips NOT OK
• Mn = ·Fy·Sx = 0.90·(50 ksi)·(346 in. ) / 12
3

165
 • Mn = 1297.5 kips-ft > 12.07 kips OK

where:

• Afg = 7.98 in.2 – gross area of tension flange (Section B4.3a)

• Afn = 6.18 in.2 – net area of tension flange (Section B4.3b)
• Fu = 65 ksi – specified minimum tensile strength
• Fy = 50 ksi – specified minimum yield strength
• Yt = 1.0 – beam flexural factor (= 1.0 for Fy/Fu ≤ 0.8, otherwise = 1.1)
• bf = 10.5 in. – beam flange width
• tf = 0.76 in. – beam flange thickness
• Sx = 346 in.3 – minimum elastic section modulus of beam
•  = 0.9 – strength factor (LRFD)
I.6.4 Column

I.6.4.1 Web panel zone shear

Rn = 0.60·Fy·dc·tw for Pr < 0.40·Pc (AISC 360-16, Eq. J10-9)

• Py = Fy·Ag = (50 ksi)·(68.5 in.2) = 3425 kips

• Pr = 0 < 0.40·Py = 0.40·(3425 kips) = 1370 kips
• Rn = 0.60·Fy·dc·tw
• Rn = 0.60·(50 ksi)·(16 in.)·(1.07 in.) = 513.6 kips
• Rn = 0.9·(513.6 kips) = 462.24 kips > 11.49 kips OK

where:

• Ag = 68.5 in.2 – column cross-sectional area

• Pr = 0 kips – required axial strength using LRFD
• Py = 3425 – axial yield strength of the column
• dc = 16 in. – depth of column
• tw = 1.07 in. – thickness of column web
• Fy = 50 ksi – specified minimum yield strength
•  = 0.9 – strength factor (LRFD)
I.6.4.2 Flange local bending

Rn = 6.25·(Fyf)·(tf)2 (AISC 360-16, Eq. J10-1)

• Rn = 6.25·(50 ksi)·(1.72 in.2)2

• Rn = 924.5 kips
• Rn = (0.9)·924.5 kips
• Rn = 832.05 kips > 11.49 kips OK

166
where:

• Fyf = 50 ksi – specified minimum yield stress of the flange

• tf = 1.72 in.2 – thickness of the column flange
•  = 0.9 – strength factor (LRFD)
I.6.4.3 Web local yielding

Rn = (Fyw)·(tw)·(5·k + lb) (AISC 360-16, Eq. J10-2)

• Rn = (50 ksi)·(1.07 in.)·(5·(2.32 in.) + 1.5 in.)

• Rn =700.85 kips
• Rn = (1.0)·163.35 kips = 700.85 kips > 11.49 kips OK

where:

• Fyw = 50 ksi – specified minimum yield strength of the web material

• tw = 1.07 in.2 – thickness of column web
• k = 2.32 in. – distance from outer face of the flange to the web toe of the fillet
• lb = 1. 5 in. – length of bearing (not less than k for end beam reactions)
•  = 1.0 – strength factor (LRFD)
I.6.4.4 Web local crippling

Rn = 0.80·(tw)2·[1+3·(lb/d)·(tw/tf)1.5]·[E·(Fyw)·(tf)/(tw)]1/2·Qf (AISC 360-16, Eq. J10-4)

• Rn = 0.80·(1.07 in.)2·[1+3·(1.5 in./16.04 in.)·(1.07 in./1.72 in.)1.5]·[(2.9E+4 ksi)·(50

ksi)·(1.72 in.)/(1.07 in.)]1/2·(1.0) = 1590.83 kips
• Rn = 0.75·(1590.83 kips) = 1193.12 kips > 11.49 kips OK
where:

• Fyw = 50 ksi – specified minimum yield strength of the web material

• tw = 1.07 in. – thickness of column web
• tf = 1.72 in. – thickness of column flange
• lb = 1. 5 in. – length of bearing (not less than k for end beam reactions)
• d = 16.04 in. – full nominal depth of the member
•  = 0.75 – strength factor (LRFD)
• E = 2.9E+4 ksi – Elastic Modulus
• Qf = 1.0 – 1.0 for wide-flange sections and for HSS (connecting surface) in
tension = as given in Table K3.2 (AISC 360-16) for all other HSS conditions

167
Appendix J. ASD Strength Calculations for Rigid Connection Test Specimen
(Test No. BFP)

J.1 Loading and Assumptions

It is assumed that the double web-angle carries the applied shear force and the top and seat angles
resist the applied moment. It is assumed that the following dead and live loads are applied 120 in.
far away from the column centerline.

Vertical shear:

PD = 10 kips (dead load)

PL = 30 kips (live load)

Strong-axis moment:

The shear loads are applied 6 in. away from the boltline.

MD = (10 kips)·(6 in.) = 60 kips-in. (dead load)

ML = (60 kips)·(6 in.) = 180 kips-in. (live load)

J.1.1 ASD Load Demand or Design Loads

According to the Load and Resistance Factored Design (ASD) procedure (AISC 360-16 or AISC
Manual 2017), ASD design load, factored load or demand, Pu under gravity loads is:

Pa = PD + PL (ASD)

Pu = 10 kips + 30 kips = 40 kips (ASD)

Mu = MD + ML (ASD)

Mu = 60 kips + 180 kips = 240 kips-in. (ASD)

Then, the required strength, Ru using the ASD load combinations will be set equal to the design
shear force, Vu applied on the connection. Then, for the cantilever beam and connection specimen:

Ru = Vu = Pu = PD + PL (ASD)

J.2. Single Plate Web Connection ASD Design Checks

J.2.1 Web Plate
J.2.1.1 Bolt shear
Rn = Fn·Ab (Eq. J3-1, AISC 360-16)
168
 • Shear strength of one bolt:
• Rn/Ω = 68·0.442 / 2 = 15.03 kips/bolt
• Total shear strength of eight bolts:
• Rn/Ω = (8 bolts)·15.03 kips = 120.22 kips > 40 kips OK
where:

• Fnv = 68 ksi – nominal shear strength of fasteners (Table J3.2, AISC 360-16)
• Ab = 0.442 in.2 – nominal bolt area
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
J.2.1.2 Bolt bearing

The nominal bearing strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 2.4·d·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

• Rn =2.4·(3/4 in.)·(0.375 in.)·(65 ksi)

• Rn = 43.88 kips/bolt
• Rn/Ω = (8 bolts)·(43.88 kips) / 2
• Rn/Ω = 175.52 kips/connection > 40 kips OK
where:

• d = 3/4 in. – nominal bolt diameter

• t = 0.375 in. – thickness of angle
• Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of angle
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
J.2.1.3 Bolt tearout

The available tearout strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 1.2·lc·t ·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)

• Lcsv = Lsv - dh
• Lcsv = 3 in. - 13/16 in. = 2.19 in.
• Rn-span = 1.2·(2.19 in.)·(0.375 in.)·(65 ksi)
• Rn-span = 64.06 kips/bolt
• Lcev = Lev - dh /2
• Lcev = 1.25 in. - (13/16)/2 in. = 0.84 in.
• Rn-end = 1.2·(0.84 in.)·(0.375 in.)·(65 ksi)
• Rn-end = 24.57 kips/bolt
169
 • Rn/Ω = [ 7·(64.06 kips) + (24.57 kips)] / 2
• Rn/Ω = 236.50 kips/conn. > 40 kips OK
where:

• lc : clear distance
• dh = 13/16 in. – nominal hole dimension (3/4-in.-diameter bolt)
• Lsv = 3 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lev = 1.25 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Lcsv = 2.19 in. – clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = 0.84 in. – clear vertical edge distance
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
J.2.1.4 Shear yielding

Rn = 0.60·Fy·Agv (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-3)

• Agv = (23.5 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 8.81 in.2

• Rn/Ω = 0.60·(50 kips)·(8.81 in.2) / 1.5
• Rn/Ω = 176.2 kips > 40 kips OK
where:

• Agv = 8.81 in.2 – gross area subject to shear

• Ω = 1.5 – safety factor (ASD)
• L = 23.5 in. – length of angle
• t = 0.375 in. – thickness of angle
• Fy = 50 ksi – specified minimum yield strength of plate
J.2.1.5 Shear rupture

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-4)

• Lh = dh + 1/16 (Section B4-3b, AISC Manual)

• Lh = 0.813 + 1/16 = 0.875 in.
• Le = L - n·Lh
• Le = 23.5 - 8·0.875 = 16.5 in.
• Anv = Le·tp
• Anv = (16.5 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 6.19 in.2
• Rn/Ω = 0.60·(65 kips)·(6.19 in.2) / 2
• Rn/Ω = 120.71 kips > 40 kips OK
where:

• Anv = 6.19 in.2 – net area subject to shear, in.2

170
 • Lh = 0.875 in. – hole dimension for tension and shear net area
• Le = 16.5 in. – effective length
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
• n=8 – number of the bolts
• t = 0.375 in. – thickness of angle
J.2.1.6 Block shear

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-5)

• Agv = (L-Lev)·(tp)
• Agv = (23.5 in. - 1.25 in.)·(0.375 in.) = 8.34 in.2
• Anv = Agv - (n-0.5)·(dh + 1/16 in.)·(tp)
• Anv = 8.34 in.2 - (8-0.5)·(0.813 + 1/16 in.)·(0.375 in.)
• Anv = 5.88 in.2
• Ant = [Leh - 0.5·( dh + 1/16 in.)]·(tp)
• Ant = [1.5 in. - 0.5·(0.813 in. + 1/16 in.)]·(0.375 in.)
• Ant = 0.39 in.2
• Ubs = 1 (as the tension stress is uniform)
• Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant
• Rn = 0.60·(65 kips/in.2)·(5.88 in.2) + 1·(65 kips/in.2)·(0.39 in.2) ≤ 0.60·(50 kips/in.2)·(8.34
in.2) + 1·(65 kips/in.2)·(0.39 in.2)
• Rn = 254.67 kips ≤ 275.55 kips
• Rn/Ω = (254.67 kips) / 2
• Rn/Ω = 127.34 kips > 40 kips OK
where:

• Ubs = 1 – Stress index for uniform tension stress

• Ant = 0.39 in.2 – net area subject to tension
• Agv = 8.34 in.2 – gross area subject to shear
• Anv = 5.88 in.2 – net area subject to shear
• Lev = 1.25 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Leh = 1.5 in. – horizontal edge distance of angle
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
J.2.1.7 Weld Shear (web plate to the column flange)

• Rn/Ω = (2 welds)·[(FEXX)·0.6·(D/16)·L·(21/2/2)] / 2 (Eq. 8-2a/8-2b, AISC Manual)

• Rn/Ω = (2 welds)·(0.928·D·L)
• Rn/Ω = (2 welds)·(0.928·4·23.5)
• Rn/Ω = 174.46 kips > 40 kips OK
where:
171
 • D=4 – number of sixteenths-of-an-inch in the weld size
• L = 23.5 in. – length of the angles
• FEXX = 70 ksi – filler metal electrode classification strength
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
J.2.2 Beam
J.2.2.1 Bolt bearing

The nominal bearing strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 2.4·d·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

• Rn =2.4·(3/4 in.)·(0.545 in.)·(58 ksi)

• Rn = 56.90 kips/bolt
• Rn/Ω = (8 bolts)·(56.90 kips) / 2
• Rn/Ω = 227.6 kips/connection > 40 kips OK
where:

• d = 3/4 in. – nominal bolt diameter

• tw = 0.545 in. – thickness of beam web
• Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of angle
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
J.2.2.2 Bolt tearout

The available tearout strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 1.2·lc·t ·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)

• Lcsv = Lsv - dh
• Lcsv = 3 in. - 13/16 in. = 2.19 in.
• Rn-span = 1.2·(2.19 in.)·(0.545 in.)·(65 ksi)
• Rn-span = 93.10 kips/bolt
• Lcev = Lev - dh /2
• Lcev = 4.4 in. - (13/16)/2 in. = 3.99 in.
• Rn-end = 1.2·(3.99 in.)·(0.545 in.)·(65 ksi)
• Rn-end = 169.62 kips/bolt
• Rn/Ω = [7·(93.10 kips) + (169.62 kips)] / 2
• Rn/Ω = 410.66 kips/conn. > 40 kips OK
where:

172
 • lc : clear distance
• dh = 13/16 in. – nominal hole dimension (3/4-in.-diameter bolt)
• Lsv = 3 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lev = 1.25 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Lcsv = 2.19 in. – clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = 3.99 in. – clear vertical edge distance
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
• tw = 0.545 in. – thickness of beam web
• Fu = 65 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of beam
J.2.2.3 Shear yielding

Rn = 0.60·Fy·Agv (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-3)

• Agv = (29.83 in.)·(0.545 in.) = 16.26 in.2

• Rn/Ω = 0.60·(50 kips)·(16.26 in.2) / 1.5
• Rn/Ω = 325.2 kips > 40 kips OK
where:

• Agv = 16.26 in.2 – gross area subject to shear

• Ω = 1.5 – safety factor (ASD)
• d = 29.83 in. – beam depth
• tw = 0.545 in. – thickness of beam web
• Fy = 50 ksi – specified minimum yield strength
J.3. Flange Plate Connection ASD Design Checks
J.3.1 Design Forces
J.3.1.1 Flange Bolt Shear Force
The moment arm between flange forces is equal to the depth of the beam.
Puf = Mu/dm
• Puf = 240 kips-in. / 29.83 in. = 8.05 kips
where:
• dm = 29.83 in. – depth of beam
• Puf = 12.07 kips – flange bolt shear
J.3.1.2 Flange Tension Force
The moment arm between flange forces is equal to the depth of the beam plus one plate thickness.
Puf = Mu/(d + t)
• Puf = 240 kips-in. / (29.83 in. + 1.5 in.) = 7.66 kips
where:
173
 • dm = 29.83 in – depth of beam
• t = 1.5 in. – plate thickness
• Puf = 11.49 kips – flange tension force
J.3.2 Flange Plate
J.3.2.1 Bolt shear
Rn = Fn·Ab (Eq. J3-1, AISC 360-16)
• Shear strength of one bolt:
• Rn/Ω = (84 ksi)·(0.785 in.2) / 2 = 32.97 kips/bolt
• Total shear strength of eight bolts:
• Rn/Ω = (14 bolts)·(32.97 kips) = 461.58 kips > 8.05 kips OK
where:

• Fnv = 68 ksi – nominal shear strength of fasteners (Table J3.2, AISC 360-16)
• Ab = 0.785 in.2 – nominal bolt area
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
J.3.2.2 Bearing

The nominal bearing strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 2.4·d·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

• Rn = 2.4·(1 in.)·(1.5 in.)·(65 ksi)

• Rn = 234 kips/bolt
• Rn/Ω = (14 bolts)·(234 kips) / 2
• Rn/Ω = 1638.0 kips/connection > 8.05 kips OK
where:

• d = 1 in. – nominal bolt diameter

• t = 1.5 in. – plate thickness
• Fu = 65 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of plate
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
J.3.2.3 Tearout

The available tearout strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 1.2·lc·t ·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)

• Lcsv = Lsv - dh
174
 • Lcsv = 3 in. - 1.125 in. = 1.875 in.
• Rn-span = 1.2·(1.875 in.)·(1.5 in.)·(65 ksi)
• Rn-span = 219.38 kips/bolt
• Lcev = Lev - dh /2
• Lcev = 3 in. - (1.125 in.)/2 = 2.44 in.
• Rn-end = 1.2·(2.44 in.)·(1.5 in.)·(65 ksi)
• Rn-end = 285.48 kips/bolt
• Rn/Ω = (2)·[ 6·(219.38 kips) + (285.48 kips)] / 2
• Rn/Ω = 1601.76 kips/conn. > 8.05 kips OK
where:

• lc : clear distance
• dh = 1.125 in. – nominal hole dimension (1-in.-diameter bolt)
• Lsv = 3 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lev = 3 in. – vertical edge distance of angle
• Lcsv = 1.875 in. – clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = 2.44 in. – clear vertical edge distance
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
J.3.2.4 Tensile yielding

Rn = 0.60·Fy·Agv (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-3)

• Agv = (12 in.)·(1.5 in.) = 18 in.2

• Rn/Ω = (50 kips)·(18 in.2) / 1.67
• Rn/Ω = 538.92 kips > 7.66 kips OK
where:

• Agv = 18 in.2 – gross area subject to shear

• Ω = 1.67 – safety factor (ASD)
• L = 12 in. – length of angle
• t = 1.5 in. – flange thickness
• Fy = 50 ksi – specified minimum yield strength
J.3.2.5 Tension rupture

Rn = Fu·Ae (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-2)

• Ag = (12 in.)·(1.5 in.) = 18 in.2

• Lh = dh + 1/16 (Section B4-3b, AISC Manual)
• Lh = 1.125 + 1/16 = 1.19 in.
• An = (L - n·Lh)·tp
175
 • An = (12 in. - 2·1.19 in.)·(1.5 in.) = 14.44 in.2
• Ae = An ≤ 0.85Ag = 15.3 in.2 (AISC 360-16, Sec. J4-1)
• Ae = 14.44 in.2
• Rn = (65 ksi)·(14.44 in.2) = 938.6 kips
• Rn/Ω = (938.6 ksi) / 2 = 469.3 kips > 7.66 kips OK
where:

• Ag = 18 in.2 – gross area

• Ae = 14.44 in.2 – effective net area
• Lh = 1.19 in. – hole dimension
• Fu = 65 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of plate
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
J.3.2.6 Block shear

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-5)

• Agv = (L-Lev)·(t)
• Agv = (2 planes)·(24 in. - 3 in.)·(1.5 in.) = 63 in.2
• Anv = Agv - (n-0.5)·(dh + 1/16 in.)·(t)
• Anv = 63 in.2 - (2 planes)·(7-0.5)·(1.125 + 1/16 in.)·(1.5 in.)
• Anv = 39.84 in.2
• Ant = [min(g, b - g) - 1.0·( dh + 1/16 in.)]·(t)
• Ant = [6 in. - 1.0·(1.125 in. + 1/16 in.)]·(1.5 in.)
• Ant = 7.22 in.2
• Ubs = 1 (as the tension stress is uniform)
• Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant
• Rn = 0.60·(65 kips/in.2)·(39.84 in.2) + 1·(65 kips/in.2)·(7.22 in.2) ≤ 0.60·(50 kips/in.2)·(63
in.2) + 1·(65 kips/in.2)·(7.22 in.2)
• Rn = 2023.06 kips ≤ 2359.30 kips
• Rn/Ω = (2023.06 kips) / 2
• Rn/Ω = 1011.53 kips > 7.66 kips OK
where:

• Ubs = 1 – Stress index for uniform tension stress

• Ant = 7.22 in.2 – net area subject to tension
• Agv = 63 in.2 – gross area subject to tension
• Anv = 39.84 in.2 – net area subject to tension
• Lev = 3 in. – vertical edge distance of plate
• Leh = 3 in. – horizontal edge distance of plate
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
176
 • g = 6 in. – gage between transfer bolts of plate
• b = 12 in. – width of plate
J.3.2.7 Compression

Pn = Fy·Ag when Lc/r ≤ 25 (AISC 360-16, Sec. J4-4)

• r = tp/(12)1/2 = 1.5 in./(12)1/2

• r = 0.43 in.
• Lc = K·L/r = 0.65·(3 in.)/(0.43 in.)
• Lc = 4.43 < 25 NOT OK
• Ag = Lp·tp = (12 in.)·(1.5 in.)
• Ag = 18 in.2
• Rn/Ω = Fy·Ag = (50 ksi)·(18 in.2) / 1.67
• Rn/Ω = 538.02 kips > 7.66 kips OK
where:

• K = 0.65 – effective length factor

• L = 3 in. – distance between adjacent bolt holes
• Lc = 4.43 – effective length
• Ag = 18 in.2 – gross area
• Ω = 1.67 – safety factor (ASD)
J.3.3 Beam

J.3.3.1 Bearing

The nominal bearing strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 2.4·d·t·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6a)

• Rn = 2.4·(1 in.)·(0.76 in.)·(65 ksi)

• Rn = 118.56 kips/bolt
• Rn/Ω = (14 bolts)·(118.56 kips) / 2
• Rn/Ω = 829.92 kips/connection > 8.05 kips OK
where:

• d = 1 in. – nominal bolt diameter

• tp = 0.76 in. – thickness of beam flange
• Fu = 58 ksi – specified minimum tensile stress of beam
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
J.3.3.2 Tearout
177
The available tearout strength of the beam web per bolt is determined from AISC Specification
Section J3.10.

Rn = 1.2·lc·t ·Fu (AISC 360-16, Eq. J3-6c)

• Lcsv = Lsv - dh
• Lcsv = 3 in. - 1.125 in. = 1.875 in.
• Rn-span = 1.2·(1.875 in.)·(0.76 in.)·(65 ksi)
• Rn-span = 111.15 kips/bolt
• Lcev = Lev - dh /2
• Lcev = 2 in. - (1.125 in.)/2 = 1.44 in.
• Rn-end = 1.2·(1.44 in.)·(0.76 in.)·(65 ksi)
• Rn-end = 85.22 kips/bolt
• Rn/Ω = (2)·[ 6·(111.15 kips) + (85.22 kips)] / 2
• Rn/Ω = 752.12 kips/conn. > 8.05 kips OK
where:

• lc : clear distance
• dh = 1.125 in. – nominal hole dimension (1-in.-diameter bolt)
• Lsv = 3 in. – vertical center to center bolt distance
• Lev = 2 in. – vertical edge distance of beam
• Lcsv = 1.875 in. – clear vertical distance between bolts
• Lcev = 2.44 in. – clear vertical edge distance
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
J.3.3.3 Block shear

Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant (AISC 360-16, Eq. J4-5)

• Agv = (Lev+(n-1)·s)·(t)
• Agv = (2 planes)·(2 in. +(7-1)·3 in.)·(0.76 in.) = 30.4 in.2
• Anv = Agv - (n-0.5)·(dh + 1/16 in.)·(t)
• Anv = 30.4 in.2 - (2)·(7-0.5)·(1.125 + 1/16 in.)·(0.76 in.)
• Anv = 18.67 in.2
• Ant = [(b - g) - 1.0·( dh + 1/16 in.)]·(t)
• Ant = [(10.5 in. - 6 in.) - 1.0·(1.125 in. + 1/16 in.)]·(0.76 in.)
• Ant = 2.52 in.2
• Ubs = 1 (as the tension stress is uniform)
• Rn = 0.60·Fu·Anv + Ubs·Fu·Ant ≤ 0.60·Fy·Agv + Ubs·Fu·Ant
• Rn = 0.60·(65 kips/in.2)·(18.67 in.2) + 1·(65 kips/in.2)·(2.52 in.2) ≤ 0.60·(50 kips/in.2)·(30.4
in.2) + 1·(65 kips/in.2)·(2.52 in.2)
• Rn = 891.93 kips ≤ 1075.8 kips
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 • Rn/Ω = (891.93 kips) / 2
• Rn/Ω = 445.97 kips > 8.05 kips OK
where:

• Ubs = 1 – Stress index for uniform tension stress

• Ant = 2.52 in.2 – net area subject to tension
• Agv = 30.4 in.2 – gross area subject to tension
• Anv = 18.67 in.2 – net area subject to tension
• Lev = 2 in. – vertical edge distance of plate
• Leh = 3 in. – horizontal edge distance of plate
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
• g = 6 in. – gage between transfer bolts of plate
• b = 10.5 in. – width of beam flange
• s = 3 in. – spacing between bolts
J.3.3.3 Flexural strength

Mn = Sx·Fu·Afn/Afg when Fu·Afn < Yt·Fy·Afg (AISC 360-16, Eq. F13-1)

Otherwise, the limit state of tensile rupture does not apply

• Afg = (bf)·(tf)
• Afg = (10.5 in.)·(0.76 in.) = 7.98 in.2
• Afn = Afg - n·(dh + 1/16 in.)·(tp)
• Afn = 7.98 in.2 - 2·(1.125 in. + 1/16 in.)·(0.76 in.) = 6.18 in.2
• Fy/Fu = (50 ksi)/(65 ksi) = 0.77 < 0.8 therefore Yt = 1.0
• 2
Fu·Afn = (65 ksi)·(6.18 in. ) = 401.7 kips
• Yt·Fy·Afg = 1.0·(50 ksi)·(7.98 in.2) = 399 kips
• Fu·Afn = 401.7 kips < Yt·Fy·Afg = 399 kips NOT OK
• 3
Mn/Ω = Fy·Sx/Ω = [(50 ksi)·(346 in. ) / 12] / 1.67
• Mn/Ω = 863.27 kips-ft > 8.05 kips OK
where:

• Afg = 7.98 in.2 – gross area of tension flange (Section B4.3a)

• Afn = 6.18 in.2 – net area of tension flange (Section B4.3b)
• Fu = 65 ksi – specified minimum tensile strength
• Fy = 50 ksi – specified minimum yield strength
• Yt = 1.0 – beam flexural factor (= 1.0 for Fy/Fu ≤ 0.8, otherwise = 1.1)
• bf = 10.5 in. – beam flange width
• tf = 0.76 in. – beam flange thickness
• Sx = 346 in.3 – minimum elastic section modulus of beam
• Ω = 1.67 – safety factor (ASD)
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J.3.4 Column

J.3.4.1 Web panel zone shear

Rn = 0.60·Fy·dc·tw for Pr < 0.40·Pc (AISC 360-16, Eq. J10-9)

• Py = Fy·Ag = (50 ksi)·(68.5 in.2) = 3425 kips

• Pr = 0 < 0.40·Py = 0.40·(3425 kips) = 1370 kips
• Rn = 0.60·Fy·dc·tw
• Rn = 0.60·(50 ksi)·(16 in.)·(1.07 in.) = 513.6 kips
• Rn/Ω = (513.6 kips) / 1.67 = 307.54 kips > 7.66 kips OK
where:

• Ag = 68.5 in.2 – column cross-sectional area

• Pr = 0 kips – required axial strength
• Py = 3425 – axial yield strength of the column
• dc = 16 in. – depth of column
• tw = 1.07 in. – thickness of column web
• Fy = 50 ksi – specified minimum yield strength
• Ω = 1.67 – safety factor (ASD)
J.3.4.2 Flange local bending

Rn = 6.25·(Fyf)·(tf)2 (AISC 360-16, Eq. J10-1)

• Rn = 6.25·(50 ksi)·(1.72 in.2)2

• Rn = 924.5 kips
• Rn/Ω = (924.5 kips) / 1.67
• Rn/Ω = 553.59 kips > 7.66 kips OK
where:

• Fyf = 50 ksi – specified minimum yield stress of the flange

• tf = 1.72 in.2 – thickness of the column flange
• Ω = 1.67 – safety factor (ASD)
J.3.4.3 Web local yielding

Rn = (Fyw)·(tw)·(5·k + lb) (AISC 360-16, Eq. J10-2)

• Rn = (50 ksi)·(1.07 in.)·(5·(2.32 in.) + 1.5 in.)

• Rn =700.85 kips
• Rn/Ω = (700.85 kips) / 1.5 = 467.23 kips > 7.66 kips OK
where:
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 • Fyw = 50 ksi – specified minimum yield strength of the web material
• tw = 1.07 in.2 – thickness of column web
• k = 2.32 in. – distance from outer face of the flange to the web toe of the fillet
• lb = 1.5 in. – length of bearing (not less than k for end beam reactions)
• Ω = 1.5 – safety factor (ASD)
J.3.4.4 Web local crippling

Rn = 0.80·(tw)2·[1+3·(lb/d)·(tw/tf)1.5]·[E·(Fyw)·(tf)/(tw)]1/2·Qf (AISC 360-16, Eq. J10-4)

• Rn = 0.80·(1.07 in.)2·[1+3·(1.5 in./16.04 in.)·(1.07 in./1.72 in.)1.5]·[(2.9E+4 ksi)·(50

ksi)·(1.72 in.)/(1.07 in.)]1/2·(1.0) = 1590.83 kips
• Rn/Ω = (1590.83 kips) / 2 = 795.42 kips > 7.66 kips OK
where:

• Fyw = 50 ksi – specified minimum yield strength of the web material

• tw = 1.07 in. – thickness of column web
• tf = 1.72 in. – thickness of column flange
• lb = 1. 5 in. – length of bearing (not less than k for end beam reactions)
• d = 16.04 in. – full nominal depth of the member
• Ω=2 – safety factor (ASD)
• E = 2.9E+4 ksi – Elastic Modulus
• Qf = 1.0 – 1.0 for wide-flange sections and for HSS (connecting surface) in
tension = as given in Table K3.2 (AISC 360-16) for all other HSS conditions

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Appendix K. IDEA StatiCa Model

Figure K.1: IDEA StatiCa BFP and stress in contact distribution

Figure K.2: IDEA StatiCa Model 1 and stress in contact distribution (LRFD)

Figure K.3: IDEA StatiCa Model 2 and stress in contact distribution (LRFD)

182
Figure K.4: IDEA StatiCa Model 3 and stress in contact distribution (LRFD)

Figure K.5: IDEA StatiCa Model 4 and stress in contact distribution (LRFD)

Figure K.6: IDEA StatiCa Model 5 and stress in contact distribution (LRFD)

183
Figure K.7: IDEA StatiCa Model 6 and stress in contact distribution (LRFD)

Figure K.8: IDEA StatiCa Model 7 and stress in contact distribution (LRFD)

Figure K.9: IDEA StatiCa Model 8 and stress in contact distribution (LRFD)

184
Figure K.10: IDEA StatiCa Model 9 and stress in contact distribution (LRFD)

Figure K.11: IDEA StatiCa BFP and stress in contact distribution (ASD)

185
Appendix L. Comparison of ABAQUS and IDEA StatiCa Models

186
 Figure L.1: Predicted stress between IDEA StatiCa and ABAQUS

Note 1: In ABAQUS, node set was defined in different positions (e.g., shear plains) in order to
extract data (i.e., nodal forces, shear forces, etc.) from the model and calculate the bolt loads.
Note 2: In ABAQUS, to calculate the weld capacity, first the element with maximum stress was
identified (critical element). Then, the resultant force and its angle with the weld longitudinal
axis was obtained and approximated, respectively.

187