Bolted Connections in Round Bar Steel Structures

Abstract

High‐strength bolted connections in round bar steel structures in which the bolts are subjected to direct tension are studied. Special attention is paid to the prying action in the connection. A theory is developed that permits analysis of bolted end plate connections, including determination of the prying forces. The theory includes both the case in which separation in the bolt line occurs before, and the case in which it occurs after the reduced yield moment of the end plate is reached. A comparison of the results obtained from a test series carried out at the Technical University of Denmark with those obtained by means of the suggested design method shows little difference, the maximum deviation in bolt forces being about 8%. The tests show that, due to strain hardening in the end plate, a significant strength reserve exists beyond the yield load of the connection.