Recent developments for the design of moment end-plate connections

Moment end-plate connections are used in the United States primarily in pre-engineered, industrial buildings. Their use in multi-story, moment-resistant frame construction is becoming more common because of advancements in design methods and fabrication techniques. This paper reviews past literature and design methods for both flush and extended end-plate configurations, including column side limit states. Recommended design procedures, which are based on recent analytical and experimental research in the United States, are then presented. Design procedures for two flush end-plate configurations (two and four bolts at the tension flange) are based on the yield-line method, but include tension bolt force predictions. Procedures for two extended configurations (four and eight bolts at the tension flange) are the result of finite element studies. Bolt force predictions are also included in these procedures. Methods to evaluate the three column side limit states (web yielding, web buckling and flange bending) at moment end-plate connections are also presented.