Moment-Rotation Characteristics of Shear Connections

In simple type construction it is assumed that the ends of beams and girders are connected for shear only and are free to rotate under load in the plane of loading. A standard connection used has been a pair of angles fastened to the web by welds and field bolted or welded to the supporting girder or column as shown in Fig. 1. This type of connection, even when designed for shear only, has proved most reliable and among its advantages are: 1. The longitudinal position of the angles can be adjusted slightly to allow for over- or under-cut in the length of the beam. 2. The projection of the angles beyond the end of the beam provide some clearance for erection.