AISC Provisions for Web Stability under Local Compression Applied to HSS

The relevant limit states for local compression loading on the webs of a rectangular HSS member are reviewed, and the 2016 AISC Specification Chapter J provisions are adapted from their normal application to the single web of a W-shape or I-section to this case. Two recent laboratory tests on matched-width, rectangular HSS-to-HSS cross-connections are described to illustrate the behavior of such connections under branch axial compression. The data from these tests are supplemented by experimental results from a further 76 cross-connection tests, with the branches being either welded plates or welded HSS. From this 78-test database, the existing provisions for local yielding of the chord sidewalls, local crippling of the chord sidewalls, and buckling of the chord sidewalls, are evaluated. Recommendations are made for handling transverse compression loading on HSS webs in the AISC Specification, and a design example is given to illustrate the approach.