Extended end-plate connections under cyclic loading: Behaviour and design

Testing of seven full-scale extended end plate beam to-column connections under cyclic loading was undertaken. A detailed analysis of the connections and that of their individual elements is presented. The performance of the connections is evaluated in terms of strength, stiffness and energy dissipation. Observations are reported in the context of the current building code limits for steel construction. Recommendationsfor the seismic design of such connection types are proposed. It is concluded that sufficient energy dissipation capability without substantial loss of strength can be obtained by proper detailing of the connection.