Behaviour of extended end-plate connections under cyclic loading

The results of five tests on bolted end-plate beam-to-column connections are described. The specimens were subjected to cyclic loading simulating earthquake effects on a steel moment-resisting frame. The objective of the work is to determine the behaviour of this type of connection under cyclic loading well into the inelastic range and to ascertain the effect of design parameters such as end-plate thickness, column flange stiffener and bolt pre-tension force on the overall behaviour. Observations are made concerning the response of the connection and its elements. Informations and implications on the design of this type of connections to sustain simulated severe earthquake ground motion are presented. It is concluded that properly designed and detailed extended end-plate connection can provide excellent ductility as moment-resisting components in the seismic design of frames.