Beam-column welded RHS connections

Abstract T- or X-shape joints are the predominant member connections used for orthogonal plane frames. When rectangular hollow sections (RHS) are used as frame members, experiments show that the most common mode of joint failure is the push-pull local mechanism. This arises in the contact flange and webs of the column member. Over 250 such connections have been tested internationally and some of the theoretical estimations of the joints' resistance are available. On this basis design methods are suggested. The comparison between the actual and predicted strength of joints is given. A regression analysis has been used to obtain the design load.