Capacity Of Connections Research Articles

On-Grid Solar Traction System

World Railways is making significant progress in introducing high-speed trains to fulfil the increasing demands of the traveling public. Massive energy is needed for electric railroads. Many railroads operate their specialized power plants. An energy-storage grid-tied photovoltaic solar plant has been proposed as a strategy to boost the capacity of the rail network grid connection and enable the railway to become self-sufficient. To use the ballast-less rails as energy transporters, The current plan calls for installing solar panels along an HS train network. Ballast-free tracks require very little upkeep, and the space between them provides plenty of surface area for the installation of PV module arrays to harvest solar energy. This generated energy will feed into the main power line by using the concept of an on-grid solar system this energy is not more in numbers to drive the entire traction system, but it helps a lot. From this project we have developed hybrid parallel power sharing for the railway network, under this project the current will be shared in the main power line by matching the grid frequency and voltages. The primary power is solar when it can generate enough electricity. Still, in an abnormal condition, like in the absence of sunlight, the main power continuously feeds electricity without disturbing the traction system.

Effect of Graphene on Corrosion Resistance of Low Zinc Epoxy Coatings Applied to Low-Carbon Steel

To reduce the consumption of zinc resources, it is necessary to reduce the zinc powder content of epoxy zinc-rich coatings. However, the reduced zinc powder content tends to reduce the degree of connectivity in the layer, which leads to a reduction in the corrosion resistance of the coating. The effective zinc powder content was also reduced. Therefore, it is important to increase the connection capacity of the zinc powder in the coating while reducing the amount of zinc powder. In this paper, an epoxy coating with low zinc content is prepared by using flake zinc powder instead of spherical zinc powder. It also uses graphene to connect zinc powder in the coating to increase the electrical conductivity of the zinc powder in the coating. This results in an increase in the protection of the coating determined, although the cathodic protection of the coating was not prolonged by the results of open-circuit potential and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. In addition, when the zinc powder in the coating is cleanly consumed, the complex nature of corrosion product formed with graphene can increase the barrier resistance of the coating thereby increasing the corrosion resistance.

Future costs of key emerging offshore renewable energy technologies

A detailed understanding of the technological development pathways of energy technologies will reduce the risks of public energy policy and private investment actions. However, such assessments for emerging technologies, critical for achieving global decarbonization targets, face numerous shortcomings. These shortcomings include limited information at an early development stage, uncertainty in design convergence and performance improvements, and the application of aggregated methodologies in projecting their cost developments fails to explain underlying cost drivers and foresee potential radical changes. This study applies an improved methodology leveraging the merits of quantitative and qualitative methods and shows the technological progress expected for the tidal stream, wave technology, and biofuel production from seaweed in a detailed manner. Tidal stream LCOE declines from 264 €/MWh at 0.1 GW to 61 €/MWh at 50 GW cumulative capacity, with CAPEX, capacity factor, and OPEX contributing to 38 %, 33 %, and 16 % of LCOE reductions. Wave technology LCOE declines from 365 €/MWh at 0.1 GW to 54 €/MWh at 50 GW, with CAPEX, capacity factor, and OPEX contributing 28 %, 59 %, and 7 % of LCOE reductions. For grid connection costs, we assessed several integration choices for both technologies and concluded that sharing grid connection capacity among several installations would lower the transmission costs and serve as a policy incentive for the uptake of such emerging technologies. Further, the bioethanol production cost from seaweed declines from 17.1 €/l at 0.1-million l cumulative output to 4.5 €/l at 50 million l, a 73 % cost reduction in 9 doublings of cumulative output. Identifying fermenting organisms capable of converting the heterogenous monomeric sugars in seaweed is a major limiting factor, resulting in a wide variation in bioethanol yields. Lastly, we also summarized the uncertainties involved in the assessment, their causes, and their impacts on results to improve the understanding of potential development pathways of these technologies.

Flexural behavior of PRCFST column-column connection with transfer sleeves

This paper proposes a new configuration of PRCFST (prefabricated reinforced strength concrete-filled steel tubular) column-column connection with transfer sleeves. First of all, five PRCFST column-column connections were conducted by monotonic loading tests. The failure modes, plastic deformation, and flexural capacity of column-column connections were discussed in detail. Secondly, the finite element analysis (FEA) model was validated in main indices and failure modes. Finally, the flexural performance of PRCFST column-column connections was investigated by parameter analysis. The parameters included width-thickness ratio (D/t), column cross-sectional size (D), anchorage length (l0), and the number of steel bars (n), steel bars strength (fy,r), concrete (fc), and shear-span radio (L/D). The size effect is one of the main parameters to affect the flexural capacity of the PRCFST column-column connections. The flexural capacity of the PRCFST column-column connection increased with the l0, n and fy,r, while decreased with D/t. But the fc and shear-span ratio L/D play a little effect on the flexural capacity of the new PRCFST column-column connections.

Research on seismic performance of a novel fully precast RC frame isolation structure

Precast structure is considered the most promising approach for achieving architectural industrialization and urban functional resilience due to its advantages such as high quality, low cost, minimal on-site work, environmental friendliness, and resource conservation. However, some studies and earthquake damage investigations indicate that the seismic performance of precast structures is relatively poor, and their damage is usually attributed to insufficient bearing capacity and ductility of connections, making post-earthquake repair extremely challenging. While considering isolation technology one of the most innovative achievements in the field of structural engineering, it has been widely used in structures, and numerous isolation buildings have withstood the test of earthquakes. Therefore, isolation technology may be the most promising solution to improve the seismic performance of precast structure systems. This paper proposed a new type of dry-connection fully precast RC frame structure and adopts the isolation technology to guarantee its seismic performance. A half-scaled model of the precast isolation structure was manufactured and tested on the shaking table. The results show that after experiencing rare earthquakes, the superstructure was basically intact and the isolation layer remains undamaged, which could achieve the design objectives of no damage under moderate earthquakes and repairable after severe earthquakes.

The Load-Bearing Capacity and Deformability of Connections of Wooden Elements with Composite Materials Based on Fiberglass

The research focuses on connections of wooden structural elements with composite materials based on fiberglass. An overview of existing research and regulatory technical documents in the field of connections between wooden elements and composite materials based on fiberglass has been conducted. A type of connection for wooden elements with composite materials based on fiberglass is proposed. The article presents the results of strength and deformability studies of the developed connection. Strength characteristics are established in the form of the slice resistance of the composite material along the welding seam in the connection, a tear resistance of the composite material from the base, and the chipping of the composite material. The deformability characteristics of fiberglass connections under short-term machine testing with linearly increasing load in samples have been determined.

Evaluation of slab–wall connections in tunnel form concrete structures: A multi-level approach based on seismic demand and capacity

The seismic performance of an integrated tunnel-form concrete system relies heavily on the performance of walls, considering the safe design of slabs and the substantial length of in-place connections. However, despite ensuring suitable seismic behavior for slabs and walls, the lateral load resistance of the system depends on the capacity of connections between them, which has not received adequate attention in the existing technical literature and prescriptive codes. To address this gap, the present study focuses on the comprehensive evaluation of slab–wall connections in tunnel-form concrete systems. By analyzing 5-story and 10-story models, it was consistently observed that connections at lower levels are more vulnerable. Using the demand approach and considering the design basis earthquake (with a maximum acceleration of 0.35 g and a return period of 475 years) as the input excitation, the system exhibited a reliable immediate occupancy performance level with an estimated reliability of 100%. However, in taller structures, connections were predicted to experience cracking with a maximum demand to capacity ratio of 1.1. Applying the capacity approach and considering the earthquake corresponding to the immediate occupancy performance level in the system as the input excitation, the system achieved a reliable life-safety performance level with an estimated reliability exceeding 79%. However, in more than half of the building height, connections were predicted to experience cracking with a maximum demand to capacity ratio of 2. The results demonstrate that the existing shear-friction capacity adequately meets the demand of cracked connections in both approaches. Nevertheless, an evaluation of the shear-friction capacity demand ratio reveals that connections are undeniably one of the primary weaknesses of the tunnel-form concrete system, especially as the structure’s height, torsional effects, earthquake intensity, or allowable damage level increases. Therefore, special detailing is necessary to address this vulnerability.

Urban Resilience and Its Links to City Size: Evidence from the Yangtze River Economic Belt in China

Understanding the relationship between city size and resilience is crucial for informed decisions on preparedness and interventions in building resilient cities. This study addresses this issue by dividing urban resilience into four components: stability, redundancy, resourcefulness, and connectivity. Using the above evaluation framework, we assessed the spatial–temporal variations in the relationship between city size and resilience in the Yangtze River Economic Belt from 2005 to 2020. The findings shows that, overall, resilience increased in the cities, with larger populations and spatial scales showing greater resilience, but both megacities and small cities experienced a decline in resilience. In terms of the four components of resilience, most of the region’s cities have roughly equal connectivity and stability, but redundancy and resourcefulness vary by city size and location. Specifically, downstream and larger cities demonstrated better crisis resolution and innovation. The dominant coupling coordination states showed antagonism between population and resilience. Upstream areas experienced a mismatch between “low resilience” and “large population”, while a moderate coordination existed between spatial scale and resilience. Further, it was found that factors hindering urban resilience varied according to city size. Cities with a population of <3 million faced low connectivity and limited transformation capacity. Those with a population of 3–5 million had moderate connectivity limitations, while cities with a population >5 million faced energy and aging population challenges. This study contributes to urban resilience discourse by providing a conceptual understanding and empirical analysis of the impact of city size on resilience.

Interrupting a cycle of placement instability with short-term residential care: Trauma-informed family-like relational practice in one specialist unit

Continuous caring relationships are crucial to the wellbeing of children living in out-of-home care, with the family environment of long-term foster care usually the preferred placement for achieving relational permanence. Some children, however, experience a cycle of instability with the impact of placement disruption exacerbating emotional and behavioural difficulties and thereby undermining subsequent foster relationships. This paper reports on a service evaluation of a residential facility specialising in short-term placements for children who have experienced disruption, with the aim of interrupting the cycle of placement instability. Overview of 34 children’s placement trajectories show that most were enabled to re-enter foster care and of those who are now aged over 18 years ( n = 29), over half ( n = 16) remained in family placements until adulthood. For four children, detailed individualised assessment indicated residential care as the most appropriate option for avoiding future disruption. The paper gives cause for optimism that relationships in the residential setting have the potential to build emotional resilience and capacity for connection. There is paucity of information on how residential staff achieve these relationships in practice. Focus groups and interviews with ten staff and managers illuminate relational practices in the residential setting that are simultaneously family-like and trauma-informed.

A multi-model probabilistic framework to evaluate seismic resilience of UHV converter stations

Ultra-high voltage converter stations are significant electric power infrastructures with a high electric energy load. To quantitatively evaluate the seismic and recovery capability of a UHV converter station, this paper proposes a multi-model probabilistic resilience assessment framework divided into four analysis modules for hierarchical evaluation. The conditional probability set of the functional state between network nodes is determined using a matrix-based approach. Taking connectivity and power transmission capacity into account, the functional reliability model was built through the improved Bayesian network. A multi-parameter quantification of the post-earthquake recovery process was carried out by constructing the stepped functional recovery function as well as the time-varying seismic resilience function. The economic loss assessment model was built from multiple aspects. Taking a typical ± 800 kV UHV converter station as a case study for seismic resilience analysis, the probabilistic resilience assessment was realized, and variation trends of the multi-parameter expected value were obtained by mathematical expectation. This article shows that taking measures to postpone the sensitive interval of the system helps to avoid the seismic active area. This avoidance of seismic activity is the objective of optimization. The proposed framework can serve as a reference for the operation and optimization of power systems.

Net section tension capacity of high strength steel single shear bolted connections

Single shear bolted connections under tension usually exhibit out-of-plane deformation due to the inherent load eccentricity, resulting in significant stress concentration around the bolt holes and a stress gradient through the plate thickness. This effect is particularly pronounced in high-strength steel (HSS) connections due to the relatively lower ductility and tensile-to-yield strength ratio of HSS. However, it remains unclear whether this issue can lead to premature fracture in high strain regions before effective stress redistribution develops across the net section, subsequently reducing the ultimate load capacity of the HSS connections. To examine the above design issue, an experimental and numerical study on single shear bolted connections was conducted and reported in this paper. A total of 25 connections were tested, among which 17 were made of HSS (Q690 and Q960), and 8 were made of Q345 mild steel (MS). Based on a validated finite element (FE) model, a comprehensive numerical analysis was carried out to interpret the structural behaviour of the specimens and explore the influence of various design parameters on the ultimate tension capacity of single shear bolted connections. The findings revealed that, despite the existence of out-of-plane deformation in the steel plate, all connections (either MS or HSS) investigated in this study reached the theoretical net section resistance (the product of the net section area and the ultimate tensile strength). This is because (1) the relatively low ductility and tensile-to-yield strengths ratio of HSS materials are still sufficient to allow an effective stress redistribution across both the transverse net section and the plate thickness, and (2) the biaxial stress state around the bolt holes enhances the tension capacity of the net section. Finally, a statistical evaluation of the combined test and numerical data showed that the existing design equations for predicting the net section tension capacity of HSS (specified in EN 1993-1-12:2007 and prEN 1993-1-1:2020) can be safely applied to the design of HSS single shear bolted connections, even in scenarios where the tensile-to-yield strengths ratio of HSS is as low as 1.06.

Probabilistic wind uplift resistance framework for the relative evaluation of wood-frame load paths

Past failure risk analyses of wind-impacted wood-frame structural load paths have tended to consider simplified resistance models that account for a few key load path connections, in which connection capacity distributions are generally based on benchmark experimental results. However, recent post-storm reconnaissance studies have demonstrated that connections in the load path of light wood-frame structures are themselves composed of multiple elements with many configurations and possible failure modes. This study presents a flexible approach for modeling wind uplift resistance in wood-frame load paths that includes a more exhaustive set of potential failure points yet is computationally efficient and readily adaptable to various load paths composed of different assemblages of structural members and connections. In this framework, ultimate capacities of connections and wood members are either based on design equations provided in the National Design Specification for Wood Construction or another applicable standard or computed from a comparable mechanics-based model. Analytical capacity estimates for roof sheathing, roof-to-wall connections, and wall-to-slab-foundation connections accord well with the range of published experimental results for these connections. Capacities of connections that act in parallel are summed to transform the load path into an analogous load chain of series components. System-level wind uplift resistance, defined by the weakest component in series, is evaluated by Monte Carlo simulation. By providing a more complete description of resistance than previous simplified models have done while avoiding the expense of a detailed finite-element or other solid mechanics model, the method proposed here holds promise as a rapid, consistent, and accurate way to quantify wind resistance in any arbitrary wood-frame load path, with applications including insurance risk analysis, hybrid data science frameworks utilizing post-storm reconnaissance data, and estimation of hazard intensity from structural damage observations.

Experimental study on behavior of top-and-seat-angle with double web-angle (TSDW) connections under fire conditions

Steel beam-to-column connections are more prone to fracture due to tension in the heating and cooling phase of a fire, imposing an important issue on progressive collapse of steel structures in fire. Experiments are conducted in this study on four top-and-seat-angle with double web-angle (TSDW) connections under room-temperature, heating, heating-cooling and after-fire conditions. The effect of temperature histories and loading states on the failure modes and displacement curves of connections is investigated. A numerical model of full-scale TSDW connections is established and validated, and parametric studies are carried out to study the effect of scale ratios, material properties, angle thickness and stiffeners. The experimental results show that the connection may fail due to tearing of bolt holes or shear failure of bolts in the seat angle. The critical temperature of connections is 710 °C for a load ratio of 0.5, and its residual capacity reduces by 23 % after experiencing a maximum temperature of 980 °C. Loading during fire has a significant effect (60 %) on the residual capacity of connections after fire. It is found from numerical simulation that the scale ratio affects failure modes, critical temperatures, residual capacities and failure displacements of connections, and further work is still needed to quantify structural fire similarity. The yield strength and fracture strain are important factors affecting the behavior of steel connections at both ambient and elevated temperatures. Increasing the angle thickness and applying stiffeners can effectively improve the load-bearing capacity of TSDW connections at room temperature. There is an optimal angle thickness (e.g., 8 mm) for improving residual capacity of connections, and the selection of stiffeners should consider its matching with angles. It is recommended to exclude stiffeners for thick angles (e.g., 12 mm) to avoid adverse effect on the fire resistance and post-fire residual capacity of TSDW connections.

Laboratory and ultra-low cycle fatigue evaluation of the seismic performance of BFP connection with different amounts of pre-tension in bolts

Bolted Flange Plate Moment Connections (BFP) are one of the most practical connections, used as prequalified connections in special steel moment frames. Using three full-scale BFP connections designed according to AISC, this paper has explored the effects of bolt pre-tension levels experimentally under SAC cyclic loading protocol. The bolt pre-tension level has been defined as α coefficient to indicate the pre-tensioning level in three specimens. The bolts of the first specimen were not pre-tensioned, called snug-tightened bolts, and considered as reference connections. The bolt pre-tension levels of the second and third specimens were established in accordance with the minimum and allowable limits of AISC design code and ultimate strength of the bolt, called pre-tensioned and fully pre-tensioned, respectively. The moment capacity, total energy absorption, and strain variation of the bolts have been investigated. Meanwhile, using the ultra-low cycle fatigue failure index obtained from experimental specimens, the capacity of modeled BFP connections in finite elements has been compared with the laboratory samples in terms of failure location and connection capacity. The experimental results revealed that final resistance in BFP connections occurs in the cycle of 7% of the drift angle of SAC protocol loading, and the location of the connection failure is around the farthest hole from the column, which is consistent with the failure results from ultra-low cycle fatigue in finite element modeling for BFP connections. The measure of moment resistance in the pre-tensioned connection (Both connections were minimum pre-tensioned according to the regulation and ultimate strength of the bolt) has increased by about 50% compared to the without pre-tensioned connection. The amount of energy absorption of the pre-tensioned connection with the ultimate strength of the bolt has increased by 176% of the energy absorption capacity of the connection without pre-tensioned and 14% of the energy absorption capacity of the connection with the minimum allowable pre-tensioning of the regulation. The extent of energy absorption in the three connections was equal to 38, 92, and 105 KJ.

Seismic Performance and Calculation Method of Precast Reduced Beam Section Connection

To prevent brittle damage and improve the post-earthquake rapid repair capability of beam–column connections, a precast reduced beam section (PRBS) connection joint that can be rapidly repaired under earthquake action was proposed in this study. Four specimens, including a repaired specimen, were subjected to a quasi-static test to investigate the seismic performance and repair ability of the connection. Seismic performance indices such as the failure mode, hysteresis curve, skeleton curve, strain distribution, and ductility were obtained through observations and analyses. The results indicated that the novel connection exhibited superior load-bearing, energy dissipation, and rotation capacities, compared to the welded flange-bolted web and traditional bone-weakened connections. This novel connection effectively relocated the plastic hinge to alter the failure mode and prevent brittle damage. Additionally, rapid post-earthquake repair was achieved by replacing the dog-bone-style splice section, maintaining a high load-bearing capacity and seismic performance. Finite element (FE) models were established to analyze the mechanical behavior of the specimens, and a parametric analysis was conducted to study the influence of different parameters on the load-bearing capacity of the connection. Based on the experimental and FE analysis results, the possible yield and failure modes of the connection were analyzed, and a calculation method for the bearing capacity of the PRBS connection was proposed. A comparative result demonstrates that the proposed calculation method can accurately predict the load-carrying capacity of a connection.

Pull-out failure capacities of cold-formed steel batten screw connections at sub-zero temperatures

Cold-formed steel (CFS) roof and wall cladding systems are used worldwide, and are constructed using high-strength, thin steel battens and claddings. In North American countries, which are frequently subjected to blizzards (winter storms), these cladding systems are particularly vulnerable to pull-out failures during combined windstorm and snowy conditions. Despite extensive research studies investigating the pull-out failure mechanism and the critical parameters of screw connections between cladding and battens at ambient temperature, the behaviour of these connections under blizzard conditions has not been experimentally investigated. To fill this knowledge gap, an experimental study was undertaken that included 144 laboratory tests of screw connections in battens of varying grades and thicknesses, and three distinct types of screws. The pull-out failure capacities of screw connections in battens were evaluated under wind suction loading at four different temperatures, including ambient and sub-zero temperatures. The results of the study provided insights into the pull-out failure mechanisms of screw connections in battens and enabled the development of suitable design rules for combined wind action and sub-zero temperature conditions. The findings of this study are expected to be of significant value to engineers and building designers who are involved in the construction of lightweight cold-formed steel buildings.

Evaluation of dowel bearing strength of fungal-decayed cross-laminated timber

ABSTRACT Dowel bearing strength of three cross-laminated timber (CLT) species (Douglas-fir, Norway spruce, spruce pine fir) were periodically assessed through 40 weeks of exposure to two brown rot fungi species (Gloeophyllum trabeum and Rhodonia placenta). Time-dependent regression models were developed to describe the relationship between level of fungal exposure and dowel bearing strength of CLT. Obtained dowel bearing strength values were used to predict the capacity of floor-to-wall CLT connection systems. Predicted strength values were compared with capacity of actual connection systems which were subjected to similar biodeterioration treatments. Significant reductions in the dowel bearing strength of CLT were observed 30 weeks after fungal inoculation. Similar patterns of degradation were observed for both fungi in all three CLT species, but R. placenta was slightly more aggressive than G. trabeum, causing a 16.2 MPa reduction in dowel bearing strength of Douglas-fir after 40 weeks of exposure. Connection capacities estimated using National Design Specification yield models for dowel type fasteners and the dowel bearing strength of fungal-damaged CLT were consistent with observed properties and were within 85% of actual capacity of connections tested, especially in early stages of decay.

Examining the spatial networks of an urban agglomeration through the lens of multi-dimensional element flow: Evidence from western China

The Chengdu–Chongqing urban agglomeration (CCUA), as the only national-level city cluster in southwestern China, serves as a strategic support for the Yangtze River Economic Belt and an important demonstration area for promoting new urbanization in the country. The study of the networked characteristics of the CCUA contributes to a systematic understanding of its spatial connectivity patterns, optimization of spatial structure and layout, and promotion of high-quality regional development. In this study, we constructed models for traffic flow, information flow, migration flow, and composite flow to calculate the strength of connections between cities and the total flow of various elements in the CCUA. ArcGIS spatial visualization tools were used to depict the spatial connectivity patterns of the element flows within the CCUA. Additionally, social network analysis methods, including network density, centrality, and cohesive subgroups analysis, were employed to reveal the spatial network structure characteristics of the CCUA. The findings are as follows: (1) The overall structure of the cities within the CCUA is relatively loose, with significant differences in connectivity strength. It exhibits a west-strong and east-weak pattern, with Chengdu-Chongqing, Chengdu-Deyang, Chengdu-Mianyang, and Chengdu-Meishan occupying the top tier, while Zigong and Ya'an have relatively weak connections with other cities. Chengdu and Chongqing have prominent positions in the CCUA, with Chengdu having a more prominent core position compared to Chongqing, resulting in an overall hierarchical distribution of “1 + 1+7 + 7”. (2) The network density of the element flows in the CCUA is relatively low, indicating a generally weak element connectivity. The centrality of cities other than Chengdu and Chongqing is at a moderate to lower level, suggesting a weak overall resource connectivity capacity in the CCUA. (3) Most cities tend to form cohesive subgroups based on geographic proximity, while the cohesive subgroup in Chongqing is still in its early stages of development due to administrative boundaries. The research results quantitatively depict the spatial network structure characteristics of the CCUA, providing theoretical references for its development.

Component Modeling for Fire Behavior of Shear Tab Connections

During a building fire scenario, the behavior and capacity of gravity connections can significantly contribute to the integrity of steel-framed building structures. Because gravity connections are subjected to axial and flexural force demands and have a limited rotational capacity due to large beam rotations during a fire scenario, a connection model is needed to simulate their behavior when using analytical models to simulate the behavior of a steel structure in fire. This study develops a component model for shear tab connections at ambient and elevated temperatures in the opensource finite element program, OpenSees, to further enable the use of OpenSees for simulating steel structures in fire. Although the developed component model is not limited to implementation within OpenSees. The developed component model is benchmarked against experimental tests of isolated connections and a structural assembly with shear tab connections subjected to mechanical and thermal loads. Through benchmarking, it is shown that (1) the developed component model could be used to simulate connection behavior during a fire scenario and (2) simulating the ductility of connections and connecting components due to damage is critical when simulating the behavior of shear tab connections exposed to fire.

Bolted end-plate tube connections subject to tension and bending

A large amount of research has been undertaken on tubular bolted end-plate connections loaded in axial tension, and considerably less on such connections in flexure. This paper studies the combined effects of these two loads and presents the first laboratory tests on these connections under combined tension and flexure. Using validated finite element models, a parametric study with 360 numerical models is performed on these connections under axial and eccentric tension loads. After screening this database of experimental tests and numerical results to isolate only connection failure modes, current design methods for predicting the connection capacity under eccentric tension are evaluated and revised. In addition, based on interaction curves, a novel approach is proposed to design these splices under combined loads. For all methods, the use of the plate ultimate and yield stress was compared for the end-plate material strength parameter. Lastly, a reliability analysis is performed for the application of the recommended design methods to Canadian practice.