Ultimate limit strength of column-base connections

Abstract For steel structures, the new design concepts are based on plastic frame analysis and ultimate strength of beams, columns and connection fasteners. This paper deals with the calculation of the ultimate strength of the column-base connections. Several failure modes for concrete block, anchor-bolts, plate and column itself are taken into account. Otherwise, it is well recognized now that the ultimate strength of a connection is one of the main parameters that must be used in semi-rigid modelling. To investigate all loading conditions, an experimental device with two electro-hydraulic actuators is used. The experiment is controlled by a real-time synchro-system. The main features of the behaviour are reported, pointing out the representative parameters for further modelling. The calculation of the ultimate strength of the connecyion, using limit analysis methods, is detailed. Comparison with experimental results is made for ‘fixed’ and ‘pinned’ column-base connections.