Design of fillet welds in rectangu«r hollow section t, y and x connections using new north american code provisions

Abstract

The effective length and design of the perimeter weld around the branch member in axially-loaded Rectangular Hollow Section (RHS) T and X connections is examined experimentally. By means of 16 full-scale connection tests, which were designed to be weld-critical, guidelines for the effectiveness of the heel, toe and side welds are developed in terms of the principal connection parameters. It is found that more of the weld perimeter is effective for lower branch member to chord member angles, and more weld is effective for smaller width branch members (relative to the chord member size). The effective weld length recommendations advocated are highlighted to result in weld designs with an adequate level of safety using the current American Institute of Steel Construction specification, LRFD or CSA specifications.