Further Tests on Beam-to-Column Connections for Pultruded Frames: Web-Cleated

Abstract

Three full-sized physical tests have been conducted to understand the performance of existing beam-to-column connection details for simple frames of pultruded profiles. Experimental moment-rotation curves have been obtained under short-term loading and modes of failure established. The tests were on 254 mm (10 in.) proprietary web-cleated connections following recommended details given in the Strongwell design manual. Issues raised from the deliverables of previous tests on 203 mm (8 in.) simple connections are addressed. Results are also used to assess the generality of the design recommendations given in the EUROCOMP Design Code and Handbook. None of the ten recommendations are found to be seriously deficient, providing evidence to support the continued application of pultruded web-cleated connections in practice. It is advised, however, that, when using current recommendations to design frames, account must be taken of the long-term durability effects which can lead to a lower, and unknown, connection resistance.