Experimental study of steel beam‐to‐column connections with bolted joints where the dissipative zone is the panel zone

It is well known that inelastic behaviour in the panel zone of beam‐to‐column connections can help to ensure a more stable structural performance, as the panel zone can absorb energy to prevent structural collapse. Although plastic deformation of up to only 30 % in the panel zone can contribute to improving performance according to Eurocode 8, in the Japanese code there is no limit when structural performance is verified. This paper describes full‐scale testing of beam‐to‐column connections where the beam was connected to the column by a T‐stub using high‐strength bolts. In the test specimens, a shape similar to a T‐stub was used for the continuity plate, and partial reinforcement at the panel was expected. The testing allowed the maximum strength and deformation capacity of the beam‐to‐column connection to be evaluated.