Yield line analysis of RHS connections with axial loads

The yield line method of analysis has been used successfully for estimating the strength of different Rectangular Hollow Section (RHS) connections due to yielding of the connecting face of the main member (through member such as chord or column). The influence of axial load in the main member is usually considered by a reduction factor. Two yield line models used for RHS connections and the methods previously used for the calculation of yield moment along an inclined yield line have been investigated. A new yield line model, which takes axial load in the main member into account, is developed to calculate the strength of RHS connections. Good agreement has been found between predictions from the formula developed from the new model and the results from both laboratory tests and Finite Element (FE) analyses, for plate-to-RHS connections.