HSSJointManualofBullMooseTube

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All the information contained herein is considered reliable according to the knowledge available at the time of publication. Bull Moose Tube reserves the right to change the
product specifications without prior notice or obligation.
8/99
Prefacio.......................................................................................................................... 3
Introductionn ................................................................................................................... 4
Articulated joints: Assembled with bolts. 5
Connections for shear force: Connection of the HSS column to the HEB profile ............... 6
Welds in the center of the HSS. 7
Joining plate. 8
Design method: Connection plate to HSS. 11
Angular card. 14
Slotted pass plate. 15
The welds are located near the side wall of the HSS.. ............... 15
Double angle unions. 16
Profile TD ...................................................................................................... 17
Angular seat. 18
Advanced technology connector for structural systems greater than 18
Simple shear connections: Connection of HSS beams and columns.......................... 19
Union for double profile TD. 19
Double angle union. 19
Separated union of double angle.. 20
Rigid knots ................................................................................................................ 21
Rigid knots: Connection of HSS to HEB profiles ................................. 21
Continuous beams 21
Pass-through plates 22
Corner brackets. 22
Diaphragms 23
Reinforcement of the column face 24
Rigid knot for reinforcing the wings of a beama ........................................ 26
Rigid knots: HSS to HSS connection .......................................................................... 27
Stepped unions with b/D< 0.85 .......................................................... 29
Unions where b/D > 0.8. 29
Reinforced unions for pipes .................................................................................... 31
Plate stiffener 31
Reinforcement by cartelization 31
Blind fastening elements. 32
Conclusions ................................................................................................................. 33
Bibliographya .................................................................................................. 34

2
Preface

This brochure does not intend to cover the topic of hollow structural sections (HSS) in depth, as despite
that there are a large number of design criteria, the information is scattered in fragments in the
literature was not available to engineers at the time of publication. After the first
printing of this brochure, Bull Moose Tube Company, in collaboration with the American Institute of Steel
Construction, Inc. or AISC (American Institute of Steel Construction), the Steel Tube Institute of
North America or STI (North American Steel Tube Institute) and the American Iron and Steel Institute or AISI
(Institute of Iron and Steel of the United States) designed the book titled “Hollow Structural Sections -
Connections Manual (Hollow Structural Sections: A Guide to Connections), which was published by the AISC.
Copies of this book are available through AISC.

This brochure is limited to rectangular and square HSS and does not include scientific research.
exhaustive nor the criteria applicable to circular HSS. And even in the case of rectangular HSS, great
part of the information refers to the various types of connections for trusses where the load divisions
axially are directly welded to the tubular strings or main elements. In addition, this guide is limited to
the cases in which the joint is designed to transmit moment and shear force instead of loads
axial

The information presented in this publication has been drafted based on engineering principles.
known and is for informational purposes only. While this information is considered reliable, it should not
to be used or put into practice in any specific application without a competent professional analysis and the
verification of its accuracy, suitability, and applicability by a licensed professional in the field of
engineering, design or architecture. The publication of the material contained here is not intended to offer
statements of fact or warranties by Bull Moose Tube Company that the information is suitable
for general or specific uses nor does it constitute an authorization for patent infringement. All
The person who makes use of this information assumes the responsibilities arising from such use.

It is important to proceed with caution when using specifications and codes created by other organizations and
incorporated herein by reference, as this information may be corrected or amended
according to what corresponds after the publication of this edition. Bull Moose Tube Company is not responsible
responsible for this information beyond citing it and incorporating it merely by mentioning it at the time of the
first impression of this edition.

3
Introduction

Hollow structural sections (HSS) not only have a superior compression capacity but also beauty.
natural aesthetics, but they are also an excellent option as columns, trusses, and frameworks for
buildings. Due to these attributes, the use of HSS continues to increase in the United States and the rest of
world. However, designers and manufacturers who have never worked with HSS still express themselves with
uncertainty regarding the joints of these. With this in mind, Bull Moose Tube acknowledges that the joints
from the HSS require special design criteria in order to achieve efficiency in construction and minimize the
costs.

The connection of beams to HSS columns can be classified into two general categories. One of these categories
it is the direct union where the beam is welded to one of the faces of the column. Many times this results in
the union of two HSS, although HEB profile beams or differently shaped ones can be welded to the face of the
column. The other category is that of joining elements that are used to allow simultaneous riveting of
the frame pieces in the construction area. This is by far the most economical method of connecting
the HSS and other open shape elements. In fact, the standard riveted joints that work so
Good for open profiles that are often also suitable for the HSS. In the case of unions
simple ones where only resistance to shear stress is needed, the HSS have the same type of
connection elements that the HEB profile pieces. In fact, the load tables of the joints for
simple shear of the Design Specifications for resistance factors and loads must be applied from the
the same way as the HSS columns to the HEB profile beams. For this reason, the cost of the joints
simple for HSS is generally equivalent to that of HEB profile pieces.

4
Articulated joints: Assembled with bolts

In practical conditions, it is difficult and costly to weld joints between two pipes. Therefore, it is
It is important to have articulated joints similar to those used in HEB profile columns in order to facilitate
the raising in practical conditions. The calculation methods applied to the riveted joints
hollow sections are basically similar to those applied to other types of joints in
conventional steel constructions. However, the calculation method for closed profiles in
some cases require a special approach.

When it comes to a simple support function, the joints must have a certain degree of flexibility in order to
allow the rotation of the end of the beam as it deflects under load. The connections of
full moment, which prevents the rotation of the beam's end in relation to the column, requires a
transfer of greater moment to the column to a greater rigidity of the connection.

However, most of the joints described in this section are considered articulated joints or
semi-articulated. There are almost always two alternatives to make the articulated connections.

The joint is located at axis 'a' and is slightly fixed to the beam with an appropriate series of bolts;
the moment produced or M acts
2 on the beam.

When the joint is located on the axis 'b' (fixed with a single bolt, for example), the column
react at the moment or M. 2

Figure 1 illustrates the basic organization of a conventional joint that indicates possible conditions of
load and the relevant notes.

Vertical reaction at the support point

H: Horizontal reaction
M1Bending moment transmitted by the beam
M2Bending moment due to the eccentricity of the joint: M = Q.e 2

Figure 1. Load conditions for simple joints.

5
Connections for shear force: Connection of the HSS column to the HEB profilei

One of the main design criteria for this type of frames is the field joint of the beams and the
columns. Generally, in the workshop, a simple joint is welded to the beam or column that is riveted to the
field. The most economical method consists of using a simple joint that transmits the shear force.
with a minimal moment. The satisfactory simple connection for open profile beams and section columns.
hueca must meet the following requirements:

1). An adequate resistance to shear stress in order to support the reaction of the beam.
2). Sufficient flexibility so that the bending moment transmitted to the column is
minimum.
3). Ability to withstand light moments without breaking the joint or the connectors.
A configuration that does not cause excessive deformation of the columnar wall.
5). Reasonably clean and economical details for the manufacturer.

The common practice for simple joints in the field is to weld the connecting elements in the workshop.
to the beam or column and finish the joint in the field with bolts. Over the years, a
variety of standard simple connections for HEB profile columns, but most of them also have
they have been adapted for the HSS columns. Among these joints are the following:

Double angle
TD Profile
Angular card
Seat angle
Union plate or ear plate
Head plate
Advanced technology connector for major structural systems (auto
guided

6
Except in the case of beam seats, the joining element is attached to the beam grid. However, if the
The beam has a blind socket welded for structural profiles TD, these connections can be used with beams.
tubulars so that the rod functions similarly to the grid of an HEB profile. The joints are
they must be designed to minimize secondary loads, especially by aligning them in the same
point the central lines of the string and the elements of the grid. In the case of the structural elements
mainly, it is advisable to install the networks symmetrically in relation to the midplane of these
elements in order to also fix them symmetrically.

Welds in the center of the HSS

The two types of joints that have welds near the center of the face of the HSS, the connection plate and
the angular sheet, will be dealt with in detail in the following pages. The corresponding welding pattern is
illustrated in Figure 2

Figure 2. welds of the joining plate and angular bracket.

7
Union plate

One of the most efficient and economical methods of joining a beam to a tubular column is by means of a plate.
union. Recent research conducted by Dr. Donald Sherman from the University of Milwaukee,
Wisconsin clearly indicates that coupling plates represent a safe and economical means of joining
beams to tubular columns. In fact, these investigations indicate that many times the connections by plates
in series are unnecessary and can be avoided if certain criteria are considered. The main objective of the
Dr. Sherman's research consisted of developing design standards for union plates for
HSS columns and set the limitations of this type of joints. The study concluded that the plates of
unions do not decrease the capacity of the columns compared to the through plates and that the fixation with
Bolts have a greater impact than the type of joint. This conclusion is illustrated in Graph 1.

Graph 1. Column test of the connection plate.

8
The study of any type of joint begins with the identification of the critical failure modes that
occur under extreme load conditions. These modalities are: 1) ruptura tangencial de los pernos; 2)
relaxation of the main area of the plate; 3) fracture of the area of the plate of the network; and 4) load rupture of the
beam network game. In order to avoid the tangential rupture of the bolts, a relationship has been established between
the diameter of the bolts and the thickness of the connection plate according to the following formula:

p joint sheet≤ dperno/2 + 1/16

Similarly, the thickness of the joint plate is limited to 9/16" or less. If these points are taken into account,
There are certain combinations of the thickness of the HSS and the connection plate and the diameter of the bolts. These
combinations are summarized in Table 1 below.

tHSS tjoining plate tbolts

3/16 ≤ 5/16 3/4, 7/8, 1
1/4 ≤ 7/16 3/4, 7/8, 1
5/16, 1/2, 5/8 ≤ 7/16 3/4, 7/8, 1
≤ 1/2 7/8, 1
≤ 9/16 1

Table 1. Combination of joint parameters of the bonding sheets.

Another criterion that is necessary to take into account when analyzing the breakage of the unions of the columns
HSS is the extra limitation due to the flexible tubular wall. In this case, the tubular wall may suffer rupture.
due to flexure caused by the formation of a relaxation line or by tangential rupture of punching.
Figure 3 illustrates the mechanism of formation of the relaxation line. However, because of the
the depth of the joining sheet is much greater than its thickness, it is possible that a
unitary deformation at the edge of the plate, which would cause a localized rupture in which the plate
would detach from its place or pierce the tubular wall. This would happen before a number was formed
sufficient relaxation lines to cause rupture.

9
Figure 3. Rupture along the relaxation line. Figure 4. Shear rupture of punching.

Figure 4 illustrates the shear rupture of punching. In this case, the rupture is defined as the point at
the applied load exceeds the tangential resistance of the tubular wall around the perimeter of the
joining plate. To prevent this type of breakage, the thickness of the tubular wall must exceed a fraction of the
thickness of the joining plate so that it relaxes before the tubular wall fractures
tangentially. The equation for the thickness of the tubular wall is then presented, which is applied
together with the shear failure equation of the bolts to create Table 1.

Fy (joining plate) t (joining plate)≤ 1.2 Fu (HSS) t (HSS)

In the case of the unions that suffered a breakup during Dr. Sherman's study, all suffered
tangential relaxation of the main area of the joint sheet. However, all the joints showed the
possibility of multiple types of breaking. To avoid the possibility of welding failure, it is recommended
that the HSS is welded according to the standards of Section D1.1 of the AWS, which include practices
welding optimals.

The existence of localized moment is an important criterion for the design of connection elements.
The moment produced at the union depends on the eccentricity of the reaction, which is defined as the
distance from the face of the HSS column to the point of zero flexural moment. It has been shown that this
excentricity is less than three inches, that is, the distance between the weld line and the bolt line,
except when a flexible beam is used with the more rigid face of the HSS column (b/t) = 8. Likewise, it has been
It has been demonstrated that the minimum thickness of the face of the column must be related to the thickness of the plate.
to enforce the loosening of the joint instead of allowing the possible tangential break of
punching of the face of the column. It is known that the eccentricity of the reaction increases with the number and
size of the bolts and the thickness of the plate. Subsequently, an empirical equation was proposed for the
calculation of eccentricity:

⎡ t ⎤ 1.3
and= 0.08⎢ tw ⎥ (L d )1.35 ⎛⎜ d ⎞⎟ (inches )
⎢ wt ⎥ ⎝ pl ⎠
⎣ ⎦

10
Based on the results of the extensive research on bonding laminates, Dr. Sherman refined the
design method for these joints and established the following basic rules:

General specifications (joining sheets)

If the joint plate is located at the end of a long unbraced element, it is necessary to establish
a braced point near the junction plate.

The area of the tubular wall that will be welded must be free of dents and preheated to a certain extent.
grade before proceeding with welding.

The welding is at an angle and is carried out along both sides of the plate; in addition, it must be completed.
immediately before the upper end of the joining plate.

It is at the designer's discretion to use tubes with a width-to-thickness ratio greater than. However, it is

recommend the following:b t< 253F

y

The design must be applied both to the bolts tightened to the specified torque and to the bolts
tight to the touch.

Design method: Connection plate to HSSii

1). Calculate the number of bolts needed to support the shear force. Assume that the force acts on the
line of bolts:

R
n=
r
v

2). Calculate the maximum allowed thickness of the joint plate in order to ensure the relaxation of the plate.
union before the tangential punching break of the tubular wall:

1.2F
u
t≤t tw
pl tw F
y
pl

3). Calculate the length or the thickness required for the connecting plate in order to support the shear force.

R
d ≥
pl 0.4F t
y pl
pl

11
4). Calculate the eccentricity of the reaction.

a). Determine 'e':

⎡ t ⎤
L 1.35 ⎛ 1.3
e= 0.08 ⎢ tw ⎥ ⎛⎜ ⎞⎟ ⎞
⎜ pl ⎟
d
⎢ (w t ) ⎥ ⎝ d ⎠ ⎝ ⎠
⎣ ⎦

b). If e < 3, the eccentricity point is located between the bolt line and the welding line.

e = e= '2.25
b w

c). If e > 3, the eccentricity point is located outside the pin line.

and=
b
(n − 1) − 3
and= n
w

5). Recalculate the capacity of the bolt assembly using Table XI of the AISC-ASD Manual:

R= C
b
(rv )
whereL= e
b

6). Recalculate the length or thickness of the joint sheet based on the reduction factor, which
it contemplates the reduction of shear strength capacity due to wall distortion
tubular

R
d ≥
pl ⎛ ⎞
ξ ⎜0.4F t ⎟
⎜ y
pl
pl ⎟
⎝ ⎠

whereξ = 0.80yese≤ 3yb t≥ 15

= 1.00for all cases

7). Check for any fractures along the network section:

⎛ ⎞
R= d− ⎡n
ns ⎢⎣ pl
(d+b (1 16))⎤⎛⎥ ⎜ t pl ⎞⎟ ⎜ 0.3Fu ⎟
⎦⎝ ⎠⎜ pl ⎟⎠
⎝

12
8). Calculate the dimensions of the weld in sixteenths to determine the strength capacity of the
shear effort of the connection plate with Table XIX of the AISC-ASD Manual:

R
pl
D=
C ⎛⎜ d ⎞⎟
⎝ pl ⎠

where aL = e. The
w dimensions of the weld should not be greater than 0.75 t pl.

9). Check the load capacity of the bolt set:

⎛ ⎞
⎜
P = 1.2F t d ⎟n
b ⎜ u pl b ⎟
⎝ pl ⎠

10). If the beam is cut, check that there are no tangential block breaks.

13
Angular card

The angular clip illustrated in Figure 5 is another way to fasten the HSS columns to the beams.
Simple angles are very easy to weld in the workshop, as you only need to place the pins at the cut.
simple at the joint. The angle creates an eccentric moment at the joint, which may influence the design of the
fastening elements. The amount of moment created in the angle can be approximated by the
equation m = R*e, where "R" represents the cut of the reaction and "e" represents its eccentricity.
The eccentricity of the reaction depends on various factors, such as the number of bolts, the dimensions, and the
angle material.

In order to allow the necessary flexibility, there should be no welds on the top or on the heel of the
angle; this applies to the angles welded to the HSS columns and the HEB profile. To prevent the beam from
However, the distance from the center of the upper pin to the center of the lower pin must be equal to or greater than the
half of the distance T of the supported [Link]

Therefore, the angular brace is considered more complicated than the connecting plate due to the
complexity of eccentricity. However, the wall distortion for the HSS must be less than for the
joining plate because part of the force is transmitted to the weld near the side wall. For
Thus, as illustrated in Figure 3, no causal mechanism for relaxation lines is produced.
that can cause the failure of the connection plates, so the strength of the HSS column must not result
affected.

The basic design methods for selecting corner brackets are found in Table XII of the
Design specifications for resistance and load factors, which also apply to HSS columns.

Figure 5. Angular envelope.

14
Slotted pass plate

The figure illustrates the slotted pass plate. 6. The slotted pass plate is the simplest and most rigid type of joint.
of all due to the lesser flexibility that it allows between the plate and the column wall, although it is also the
more expensive to manufacture. On the other hand, the slotted through plates minimize the deformation of the
columns at the joint and the behavior of the joint is practically independent of the
transverse dimensions of the column.

Figure 6. Grooved plate

The welds are located near the side wall of the HSS.

The double angle joints, T joints, and seat joints are fixed to the column by
Vertical welds along the two edges of the joint elements. This characteristic is illustrated in the Figure.
7. If the joining elements are not the same width as the HSS, the welds are placed on the flat wall.
from the section close to the angle. On the other hand, if the width of the elements is equal to that of the HSS, it will be

it is necessary to carry out U welding with expanded edge. In the case of double angle joints, joints
in T and beam seat connections, the width of the element must be slightly smaller than the width of the
pared.

Figure 7. Welds near the side wall.

15
When lateral welds are applied, the local distortion of the HSS face does not represent a
design criterion; furthermore, because the end moment of the connection is small, the compression of the
lateral wall does not constitute a critical factor. The primary additional resistance criterion for the use of these
Welds are that the welds remain close to the angles that have been worked on intensely in cold.
according to the direct manufacturing process. Many times this increases the tensile properties of the steel.
by more than 50%, thus compensating for the loss of tensile strength caused by the weld area.

The criterion for using these joints with HSS columns is rotational flexibility. In practice, these joints
they are considered as articulated joints for structural analysis. When used with profile columns
HEB, the welds are oriented towards the flexible edges of the wings that do not rest directly on the grid.
while in the HSS the side walls provide the necessary stiffness for the face of the tube in the
welds. Because it is assumed that much of the distortion of the joint occurs at the same
Joining elements must still have flexibility between them and the HSS columns. In fact, it is not expected that neither
the resistance or flexibility of the joint does not constitute a critical or necessary factor for the HSS columns.

Double angle unions

It is possible that the most appropriate union in general terms is the traditional double angle union that
illustrated in Figure 8. This type of joint offers the strength of the bolts in a double shear combined with
an excellent flexibility; furthermore, due to its symmetry, this joint helps avoid lateral twisting. The
manufacturers have the option to select standard detailed angles from warehouse stock instead
of preparing special components, such as T's. If you are an engineer, consult the manual of
Design specifications for resistance and load factors for simple shear connections for
select the appropriate angle based on the load conditions and the size of the bolts. The joint is
Weld the two vertical angles to the column with a short return along the part in the workshop.
superior of double size compared to the width of the weld, to later complete it in the
field riveted to the beam net.

Figure 8. Double angle.

16
TD Profile

Figure 9 illustrates a joint formed by a TD profile welded along the edges of the two wings of the
HSS column. The TD profile is off-center, which allows centering the beam network on the face of the [Link]
This in turn allows for easy riveting of the beam to the TD profile in the field. This type of joint allows for a
reasonable rotation on profile distortion and does not induce intense fatigue or distortions in the wall
columnar HSS compared to the connection plate. The basic behavior of this type of connection is somewhat
similar to conventional structural angles, although it is stiffer due to the continuity of the
wings of the TD profile through the face of the HSS. Many times, White and Fang suggest a reasonvminimum of
width to thickness. It is worth mentioning again that the main difference lies in the location of
the welding and the eccentricity of the joint. Table XI of the Design Specifications of factors of
resistance and load ready the resistance of TD profiles.

Figure 9. Simple TD profile.

17
Seat angle

Some very common joints designed for heavier shear loads are used as joints
seat angles with the option of standard TD profiles and break plates. The angular seat joint by
general consists of an angle welded to the face of the HSS that transfers the shear load to it as
It is illustrated in Figure 10a. Alternatively, the TD profiles and traditional shear plates can be welded to
the HSS face with a smaller angle welded across the HSS as illustrated in Figure 10b.

Figure 10a. Seat angle. Figure 10b. Seat angle for higher loads.

Advanced technology connector for major structural systems

A new line of beam-to-column connections is currently under development, known as

name of advanced technology connectors for major structural systems. The emphasis of these
new designs rely on a self-guiding function that minimizes human involvement during
construction, which results in a faster, safer, and more economical raising of the structure. The concept
It is based on the use of a solid trapezoidal spike in the beam, which slides on a guide.
three-dimensional mortise. This concept is illustrated in the photograph below.

The advanced technology connector for major structural systems may be ideal for HSS due to
that can be welded embedded on the side of a tube. In fact, it is currently taking place
investigations aimed at evaluating the behavioral characteristics of technology connectors
advanced for structural systems greater than welding them to tubes of varying thickness.

18
Simple shear connections: Connection of HSS beams and columns

Generally, the rivet for connections of HSS beams and columns requires the use of special material, such as
TD profiles, angles or plates in a manner similar to those illustrated in figures 3 to 9. Figures 11 a and
Figure 11b illustrates a typical simple joint of HSS beam and column connections. Figure 11a illustrates a joint
formed by a horizontal TD soldier profile in the workshop to the column with a short return around the
upper angles, while Figure 11b represents a similar detail with two angles that form
a slot. These joints are finished in the field by riveting the beam to the two vertical angles. Likewise
that all the joints requiring riveting in the field, this joint is more economical than the joints
by welding in the field.

Union by double profile TD

As illustrated in Figure 11a, this joint constitutes a means of riveting this system. The TD profiles are
made from plates or laminated sections. In order to maintain the proper alignment of the beam and the
column, the section of the TD profile of the column can be centered on the columnar wall. The section of the TD profile
The column is welded to the column in the workshop along both edges of the flanges. The profile should not be
Weld on all four sides to maintain flexibility. It is suggested to use a minimum width index of
thickness of 10 for the TD airfoil.I

Figures 11a and 11b.

Double angle union

This joint, illustrated in Figure 11b, allows the use of bolts in double shear. Astenuh (1987) suggests a
minimum width-to-thickness ratio of 10 for the TD profile section and 20 for the column section.

19
Separated union of double angle

Figure 12a below illustrates a double angle connection with the beam trimmed to facilitate riveting.
The head of the beam must be sealed to prevent it from being exposed to atmospheric corrosion. The width index at
The thickness of the column must be greater than 32 and the angles must be welded close to the edge of the column. Like this
the same, as illustrated in Figure 12b, it is possible to use plates instead of angles to allow the use of
wider beams. As illustrated, the plates are welded in the workshop near the edge of the angles of the
HSS column to form a relatively rigid joint. Another option is to use break plates.
soldiers near the side walls of the column as illustrated in Figure 12b. Again, the best
method for selecting the appropriate size bolts and angles is to consult Table XI
information about simple shear joints in the Design Specifications manual of factors
resistance and load.

Figure 12a. Separate union of double angle. Figure 12b. Break plate

The face plates of the column, like those illustrated in Figure 13, represent another method of
Union of the tubes. The end plates are welded to the face of the HSS and to the end of the tube that seals the
beam, but they allow for easy installation.

Figure 13. Plates of the face of the column.

20
Rigid knots

The following are the basic design criteria for rigid or moment connections:

Sufficient resistance
2. Sufficient rotation capacity
3. Adequate rigidity
4. Ease of lifting and economical manufacturing

Rigid joints: Connection of HSS to HEB profiles

Generally, rigid joints are more expensive to manufacture than simple joints due to the
the complexity of welding and the labor required. The designer must take into account the frames
simple and use the rigid knots only when necessary. There are various concepts applicable to the
transfer of moments from HEB profile beams to rectangular or square HSS columns. These
concepts go of the continuous beams with interrupted column to the disposition of continuity through two
beams through the column and the reinforcement of the column face to allow the use of a rigid joint.

Continuous beams
The use of continuous beams, like the one illustrated in Figure 14, avoids the need to transfer
moment to the HSS column when installing a continuous beam through an interrupted column. The continuity
The column is established by reinforcing the HEB profile with a divided stiffener for HSS. This
detail assumes that the width of the beam's flanges is equal to that of the column section and that the beam does not
it will transfer a considerable amount to the column. The disruption of the column facilitates the riveting of its
union, since the head plate is welded to the head of the sections of the column.

Figure 14. Split stiffener for HSS.

21
pass-through plates
Figures 15a and 15b illustrate a simple assembly that allows for the direct transfer of moment from a
beam to another through the column (or to the column) and where the column is interrupted to pass through walkways to
through this and from one beam to another. In this case, it is possible to use joining plates for beam networks.
because the rotation of the head of the beams (which restricts their use in simple joints) does not represent
a factor. For heavier moments, shear connections may be required for double angle frames. The
the corresponding detail of the upper section of a column is illustrated in Figure 15b, where another column
In series, it can be directly riveted onto the desired column. This assembly can be modified in the
case of beams directed in three or four directions, although it is necessary that all of them are at a
minting distance of the same depth. Likewise, it is possible to reduce the size of the column
higher in order to allow lighter loads as the number of floors in the building increases, which
reduce the need for heavier sections.

Figure 15a Figure 15b

Corner plates
When beams are at the same depth in a single plane, one alternative is to use plates.
brackets to join the beam to the faces of the columns parallel to the beam, as illustrated in Figure 16. No
no welding is used between the beam flanges and the column face, except to secure the mesh of the
beam to the sheet and the sheet to the side wall of the column. The following procedure aims toseven
achieve appropriate union behavior:

1). The upper angles should be trimmed to a radius equal to the arm of the angle minus its thickness.

The upper angles must be longer than the lower ones.

It is necessary to weld a short segment of the horizontal arms of the upper angles to the
beam

It is preferable to leave a free space of approximately 0.5" between the wall of the column and the
head of the beam.

22
As is natural, the width of the wings of the beam must be equal to or less than the width of the column. In the case
in joints where the flanges of the beam are considerably narrower than the column, it should not
Assume that the angle braces receive the shear force. The symmetrical network joints must be designed for
so that they receive the entire shear force.

There are equations for calculating the working resistance of angle plates,eightwhich must
follow to the letter:

Diaphragms
Another method for joining the wings of a beam to an HSS column is illustrated in Figure 17. First, it ...
Place a plate diaphragm around the column for each of the beam's wings to then install.
vertical network plates between the diaphragms. The beam is connected with simple shear joints at the
extremes of this assembly where the points of contraflexion of the beam are supposed to be.

23
This assembly can be adapted to structures with two, three, or four beams and one column. The investigations
conducted by Kato et al. (1981) and Tabuchi (1988) aimed at establishing the design criteria for this type of
The assembled ones have been defined and appear in the illustration.

Reinforcement of the column facenine

The most direct approach to transfer the moment from a beam to an HSS column is to reinforce the face.
from the column so that it receives the forces of the wing of the beam. This approach is illustrated in Figure 19.
Basically, a plate diaphragm is placed around the column for each of the wings of the beam.
to then install vertical network plates between the diaphragms. The beam is connected with joints of
simple shear at the ends of this assembly where the points are supposed to be located
bending of the beam. This reinforcement can be adapted to structures with two, three, or four beams and one
column. According to the research conducted by Dawe and Grondinxin order to analyze the criteria
Design key, it is necessary to consider four basic types of breakage (illustrated in figure 20).

a). Rupture of the reinforcement plate of the flat head of the beam to the column.
b). Shear punch effort of the reinforcement plate of the stretched head of the beam.
c). The weakening of the lateral walls of the column caused by the network in the compressed head
from the beam.
d). Shear force of punching from the face of the column along the edge of the plate
reinforcement, either near the laid head or the compressed head of the beam.

Figure 19. Reinforcement of the column face.

24
 Figure 20. Types of critical rupture.

The conclusion of this research is that the main type of rupture is the one described in paragraph (a), in the
the resistance at the moment of union is calculated as follows:

M=* h F t b
r1 b yb b e

⎛ 10 ⎞ ⎛⎜ F y0t 0 ⎞⎟
where be está dado por =⎜ ⎟ bbut≤ b
⎜ b t ⎟ ⎜⎜ F t ⎟⎟ i i
⎝ 0 0 ⎠ ⎝ yi i ⎠
t b represents the thickness of the wings of the beam

hb represents the height of the beam

Or, the resistance at the moment of union according to the type of break described in subsection (b) is calculated from
the following way:

F
yp
M=* h t b
r1 b 3 p ep

where bep is given by [9.10]

T p represents the thickness of the reinforcement plate

The type of rupture described in subsection (c), which requires the weakening of the lateral walls of the column
caused by the network, it can be related to the reinforcement methods with plate and is calculated in the following
way:

⎛ t
M=* 0.5F t h+ 5t+ ⎛ ⎞ ⎞2
r1 k0b⎜⎝ ⎜ 0
⎝ p ⎟⎟
⎠⎠

where Fk represents the buckling fatigue of the side walls of the column and can be taken as 0.8 Fy.

25
The side walls of the column are stabilized against buckling when they carry beams and the elements of
unión están instalados en las áreas vulnerables de las paredes.

The type of rupture described in subsection (d) requires the shearing force of the punching of the face of the
column on the edges of the reinforcement plate, either outward from the laid head or inward from the
compressed head of the beam. If the punching shear stress is uniform around the plate of
Reinforcement, it is assumed that the resistance at the moment of the joint for this type of rupture is as follows:

F
y0
M=* 0.5 t ⎛⎜ L
2 + 2L B ⎞
⎟
r1 3 0p⎝ p p ⎠

However, another potential type of rupture is the rupture mechanism along the relaxation line of the plate.
reinforcement.

These investigations indicate that it is possible to produce the load-bearing capacity moment of the beams with
reinforcement plates are taken into account considering the types of failure described above. In addition, it has
it has been demonstrated that: 1) the stiffness of the joint is strengthened when the width of the reinforcing plate is practically
it is equivalent to that of the flat part of the face of the column; in fact, the maximum stiffness of the joint is achieved if the
the width of the plate is equal to the width of the column; 2) the resistance is given more in relation to the plate of
reinforcement based on the width-to-thickness ratio of the column; and 3) the connections with angles of
seats distribute the loads of the lower wings in the column more effectively than those that only
they have speed bumps.

Rigid joint for wing reinforcement of a beam

An interesting alternative to the reinforcement of the HSS face is the expansion of the wings of a beam by
means of stiffeners in order to directly transfer the forces from the wings to the side walls of the
column andmany times to the entire periphery of the HSS face. One of the investigations in this area
carried out by Tingelevenand col. (1991) concluded that the use of stiffeners for TD profiles increases
manera eficaz la resistencia y rigidez de la unión. Se ha propuesto una diversidad de alternativas, las cuales se
illustrated in figures 21a and 21b.

Figure 21a Figure 21b

26
Rigid joints: Union of HSS to HSSxii

The terminology and specifications used to describe tubular joints are important, although
not always known to those who have never worked with this type of element. The branches are elements
that join to form a main continuous structure. In level joints, the branches and the elements
Main ones have the same width, while in the stepped joints the branches are narrower.
Rigid knots used to connect HSS columns to HSS beams require direct welding and are analyzed by
the examination of the behavior, resistance, and flexibility of a Vierendeel truss in which the joint
transmits shear force and moment at a position in an inverted 'T', as illustrated in Figure 22 (with
the differences of the case.

Figure 22. Differences between tube-to-tube joints.

For practical design purposes, the moment capacity of a joint is determined in a way
similar to that of the T-joint under axial load for HSS, where the resistance is characterized by a
maximum load capacity or by a limit of deformation or rotation. Again, the failure analysis is
applies to the determination of bonding criteria as illustrated in Figure 23 (Wardenheir, 1982). This assumes
that neither the welds nor the elements themselves are critical factors.

Figure 23. Rupture analysis of rigid joints for the connection of HSS to HSS

27
The types of failures influenced by geometry are those caused by distortion or shear stress.
shearing on the face of the joint of the main element or due to weakening of the side walls. In the
in the case of joints that undergo planar bending of the branch, the main variables that influence resistance
they are the following:

1). The width ratio or b/D

The D/T of the main element
3). The thickness index or t/T
4). The depth index of the branch to the width of the main element or h/D

Given so many variables, it is no surprise that the design criteria are so complicated. Without
embargo, CIDECT, an international organization interested in tubular construction, has carried out extensive
tests and evaluations of tube-to-tube joints. Researchers Konig and Wardenheir (1985) agree
as the resistance and bending stiffness of non-rigid joints decrease as the index increases
of the slenderness of the rope (D/T) and decreases the width index of the branch to the rope (b/D). Packer and
Henderson has established complex design criteria for pipe joints that require the use of
equations and monographs, which are presented in their work Design Guide for Hollow Structural Sections. A
the following is a summary of your findings:

Most Vierendeel joints for HSS present some degree of lack of stiffness. Therefore, when
to calculate the moment and the deflections for this type of joint, it is necessary to know the degree of rigidity of the
union. The following is an empirical expression that approximates the stiffness value of a tube-to-tube joint:

(b D) 2(h b )
K= 560×10 6 , (in− kips rad )
(D T )3

However, for practical design purposes, the load-carrying moment of a joint can be
calculate in a similar way to the T-joint for HSS under axial load. In fact, section 10 of
The AWS structural welding code details the criteria for tube-to-tube joints. These criteria
They are of a general nature for rectangular tubes in a variety of truss configurations. The criteria
are based on the shear force of punching through the thickness of the wall of the main element. It
they have made some adjustments to the constants in order to account for the break due to distortion caused by the line
of relaxation and compensations for network weakening. However, the criteria for the unions of
Tube to tube with planar bending can be deduced as follows:

28
Step connections with b/D< 0.85

The limit bending strength of the branch, f, is given

b by:
Q Q F
t q f y
f≤ ≤ 0.4F
T b .3(D T ) y

where Q= 1forb D≤ 0.5

q
0.25
y Q= forb D> 0.5
q b D (1− b D )
Q= 1forf0.6F≤ 0.44
f a y
Q = 1.2− .5f0.6Fforf0.6F> 0.44
f a y a y

donde f está
a representada por el esfuerzo sobre el elemento principal. Qq representa la constante que
it contemplates the increase in wall resistance for wide branches and Q, the constant that
f decreases the
wall resistance when the column supports heavy axial loads.

Basically, the criteria limit the bending effort of the branch in order to prevent a rupture due to distortion.
from the wall of the main element, which represents a function of D/t. One of the upper limits of the
rupture consists in that the shear force across the wall must not exceed the shear strength.
Qq increases the wall resistance for wide branches, while Qf decreases this resistance when
the column supports heavy axial loads.

Unions where b/D > 0.8

In the case of leveled or stepped joints where b/D > 0.8, AWS has established essential criteria for
design. The design is based on the most critical types of failure: 1) the decrease in branch capacity (it is
to say, the effective width); and 2) the load capacity or buckling of the side wall of the rope. The forces of
The lateral wall is based on the total shear limit of the main element for staggered joints.
and at the boundary of the network of the main element for the leveled unions. The criteria are drafted in such a way as to
apply them to the axial force of the branch and it is conservative to use the equation for b/D 0.8 when the value of
Qq is limited to 1.56, which corresponds to b/D = 0.8.

The equations can be rearranged in order to establish limiting indices for D/T as a function of t/T for
to produce a certain degree of fatigue in the branch.

D/T[ Q Q
f q but no more than 8.33 Q Q asfa limit
q

These limiting indices are graphically plotted in Figure 24 for a permitted branch fatigue of 0.6 F and y
Qf equal to one for the fatigue degree of the main element. The lower line represents Q equal
q to one and is
apply to b/D< 0.5. The upper line represents the limit when b/D is equal to 0.8 and can be used with values
higher than the index. A greater degree of fatigue in the branch or the main element can shift the curves towards
the left, although it would have no influence in the plateau.

29
In Canada, Korol conducted tests that demonstrated the total transfer of momentum in
level unions should not occur unless D/T is less than 16. This seems to conform to the trend that
suggests Figure 24. If the limits of Figure 24 are not met, it may be that the fatigue level of the branch
has decreased or that the union has been strengthened.

Figure 24. Limits of D/t and t/T.

The AWS criteria also allow for the analysis of the relaxation line for stepped joints when
b/D< 0.8. Stockwell derived the exact moment based on the analysis of the relaxation line of the network.
a column W with a welded beam to it. Because the relaxation line pattern is similar to the
What would be observed on the face of a tubular column, this equation can only be used for tube joints to
tube.

⎡ (c+ b)hT(cD+ h)T 2 2 6hT 3 ⎤

where M= F ⎢ + + ⎥
u y⎢ 12 2c c ⎥
⎣ ⎦

D− b
c=
2

30
Reinforced unions for pipes

Plate stiffener
The wing stiffener of the chord is the one that causes the least obstructions and at the same time represents the
simplest method to reinforce a tube-to-tube joint, as illustrated in Figure 25. Korolthirteenand col. (1982)
they created an analysis for relaxation lines that led to the creation of the parameters for plates of
reinforcements that integrate a sufficient resistance to support the bending capacity or axial capacity of the
structure on the column. The following are Korol's recommendations for achieving joints of
total resistance:

1. The width of the plate must be at least equal to the flat width of the face of the HSS taken as≥
bo - 4t
o .

2. On the other hand, the length must be double the width of the HSS column, for [Link], 2b.

3. the thickness of the plate depends on what type of load dominates, axial or bending. For the total capacity of
axial compression of the branch, t≥ 4 p
t 1 - While
o. for the moment of total load capacity of the
0.5
rama, t≥p0.63(b t) 1- t1 o.

Figure 25. Stiffening reinforcement of the plate.

Reinforcement by cartelization
Another effective and aesthetic way to reinforce a joint is through 45-degree bracing.° how is it illustrated a
continuation. In fact, the branch cuts allow for very practical bundling by anyone of the
Extremes. Both reinforcement methods are suitable for supporting planar moments. This feature
It is illustrated below in Figure 26.

Figure 26. Reinforcement by corbelling.

31
Blind joint elements

Recently, Huck International, Inc. developed a new type of blind fastener for cases in which
that the back of the joint is inaccessible, as when HSS columns are joined. In fact,
apparently, the high-strength blind joint elements have good potential for rigid joints,
according to the research results of Mourad (1993). Figure 27 illustrates the connection with elements of
union of a W beam and an HSS column.

In general terms, it is possible to use tension bolts in applications where access to

one of the sides of the structure is difficult or restricted. The torsion bolt system offers
the expectation of an improvement in productivity of around 2 to 3 times, which is even more noticeable for the
beam to tubular column unions, where it will no longer be necessary to weld, use diaphragms or carry out
laborious assemblies. The joining process with this type of bolts allows the user to partially assemble or
completely the set in the construction area. Huck International plans to start production
commercially these bolts by the end of the first quarter of 1994.

Figure 27. Huck International bolts.

In addition to the bolts created by Huck International, flow drilling is another joining method.
by threaded bolts. This process involves forcing the formation of a hole in a plate using a milling cutter.
carbide cone rotating at a speed sufficient to produce heat in the metal and soften it in a
determined point. The displaced material forms a hollow truncated cone or sleeve on the internal surface and a
small elevation on the outer surface. Next, a thread is made in the hole with a tap without
to produce burrs or eliminate the material. Recently, this system was tested and demonstrated potential
to be used in the riveting of threaded bolts for HSS columns. However, this assumes the
offering of high-speed drills by the manufacturer.

32
Conclusiones

Hollow structural sections represent an excellent option for engineers and architects due to
its natural aesthetic appearance, its structural effectiveness, and the considerable savings it offers to the user.
The most important concepts of savings are material costs, transportation costs, and when they are used.
as structural exposure, the cost of the aesthetic concealment of the element.

In the past, it was believed that the unions of hollow structural sections were laborious and
expensive. However, they are not as difficult to work with as many engineers thought. In fact, there is
abundant supporting literature resulting from scientific research aimed at refining design criteria
from the HSS. This brochure has made use of these resources and aims to provide engineers with ideas
Basics on how to make simple joints and rigid knots with HSS.

33
Bibliography

i
Sherman, D. R. : Framed Connections to HSS Columns, Tubular Structures V, Proceedings of the Fifth
International Symposium, edited by Coutie & Davies, E&FN Spon, United Kingdom, August 1993.
ii
Sherman, Donald R., Ales, Joseph M.: The Design of Shear Tabs with Tubular Columns, Master of
Engineering Project, University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee, 1990.
iii
Load and Resistance Factor Design of Simple Shear Connections, American Institute of Steel Construction,
1990.
iv
Hollow Structural Sections, Design Manual for Connections, Stelco, 2nd edition, 1981.
v
White, R. N. and Fang, P. J.: Framing Connections for Square Structural Tubing. Journal of the Structural
Division, American Society of Civil Engineers: 92 (ST2): 175-194.
vi
White and Fang
vii
Giroux, Y. M. and Picard, A.: Rigid Framing Connections for Tubular Columns. Canadian Structural Engineering
Conference, 1976.
eight
Stelco: Design Manual for Connections, Hollow Structural Sections.
nine
Packer, J. A. and Henderson J. E.: Design Guide for Hollow Structural Sections Connections. Canadian Institute
of Steel Construction: 246-250 (1992).
x
Dawe, J. L. and Grondin, G. Y.: W-Shape Beams to RHS Column Connections. Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering: 4
134-144.
eleven
Ting, L. C., Shanmugan, N. E., and Lee, S. L.: Box Column to I-Beam Connections with External Stiffeners.
Journal of Construction Steel Research, 18: 209-226
twelve
Hertech, A. and Sherman, D.: Beam Connections to Rectangular Tubular Columns. AISC Proceedings (1988).
thirteen
Korol, R. M. and Brady, F. J.: Unequal width connections of square hollow sections in Vierendeel trusses.
Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering, 4 (2): 190-201.

This manual was compiled by the Technical Support Department of Bull Moose Tube.

34