Simple Joints

Simple joints are assumed to transfer no bending moments and should be designed accordingly. This chapter presents various joint configurations where simple joints are likely to be used. They are grouped in five categories: beam‐to‐column joint configurations; beam‐to‐beam joint configurations; beam splice joint configurations; bracing joint configurations; and column base joint configurations. The chapter provides design rules for beam‐to‐column, beam‐to‐beam configurations and column bases. The design rules are based on the resistance formulae provided by EN 1993‐1‐8, at least as far as information is available. The design recommendations for simple joints relate to the “hinge model”. The chapter presents specific design requirements ensuring safety for each of the connection types considered. The design methods are intended for joints subjected to predominantly static or quasi‐static loading. The design of simple joints reduces to the limitation of the applied shear force to the shear design resistance, provided that ductility and rotation requirements are satisfied.