Shear Lag in Bolted Single Aluminum Angle Tension Members

Aluminum angles are widely used in engineering structures, examples of which include bracing in railcars, secondary members in ground transportation systems, scaffolding, and cooling towers. Often, aluminum angles are used as tension members with bolted end connections. Applicable design limit states include (a) yielding on the gross cross section, (b) tensile rupture through the net area, (c) progressive bearing failure, (d) bolt shear, and (e) block shear. As geometric considerations often preclude the connection of both legs of an angle, joint efficiency and tensile strength are reduced. The objectives of the experimental investigation include determination of the net section strength by physical tests of single aluminum angle tension members, examination of shear lag effects for several geometric parameters, and development of a more rational design approach.[PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]