Development and performance evaluation of weak-axis column bending connections for advanced constructability

This paper reports a new beam-to-column connection that is suitable for use in the weak axis of a column. The proposed system mainly uses bolts, and it minimizes the use of welding, which is generally difficult to perform onsite. In this system, an H-shaped steel beam is joined to an H-shaped steel column by bolted splices at the top flange and without a scallop at the web. Eight specimens were tested to verify the structural performance of the developed connection; in doing so, the effects of geometry and arrangement of the plate were also considered. The connection materials required and CO 2 emissions were estimated to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the proposed system. The obtained results showed that this system was suitable had better structural performance than standard weak-axis connections and excellent constructability, making it suitable for replacing existing bracket-type weak-axis connections.