Unified Design Criteria for Steel Cantilever Plate Connection Elements

Abstract

Steel cantilever plate connection elements are rectangular steel plates that are distinguished from other connection plates by their two opposite unrestrained edges. The increased length of cantilever plate connection elements in some connection configurations raises concern regarding the potential of instability of the plate. Fearing that the plate may buckle due to its increased length has led engineers to utilize stiffeners at the plate free edges, which results in a significantly increased fabrication cost. The behaviour of steel cantilever plate connection elements is investigated through experiments and numerical simulation. Two connection configurations, including extended shear tabs and double-coped beams, are considered. The behaviour of the steel cantilever plate connection elements is evaluated by considering limit states, shear load eccentricity, and plasticity sequence. The effects of various variables on the response of the connection are also discussed. Based on the studies, recommendations are provided to be used in the design of steel cantilever plate connection elements.