A Comparison between Static and Quasi-Dynamic Loading on Flexible Shear Connections

Flexible shear connections are commonly used within a structural steel framework. Although assumed to have no resistance to rotational demands, these connections can be demonstrated to resist measurable lateral (axial) force and moment in combination with the applied shear force. The resistance of these forces in combination can be used to help quantify the robustness of the steel framed system. The current experimental study focuses on the comparison between flexible shear connections when subjected to static and quasi-dynamic applied vertical loading. A total of 23 tests were conducted considering shear tab and WT connections with multiple bolt configurations. Strain measurements were used to calculate the lateral (axial) forces and moments on the connection, and vertical measurements were taken directly using a force transducer. Displacement measurements were also taken and used to calculate beam rotations. Comparisons between static and quasi-dynamic responses are presented, along with a comparison of energy absorbed by the system. Results show that the speed of the applied load matters when considering the response of the system to interactive forces and moments.