Behavior and Design of Large‐Capacity Moment End Plates

Finite element modeling is used to develop prediction equations characterizing the general behavior of extended stiffened end‐plate connections that can be used for heavier beams in steel building frames. Salient features of the finite element mesh configuration used, modeling of the nonlinear material behavior, and the analysis procedure are presented. This is followed by the details of the parametric study conducted to collect data and perform the regression analyses required to develop the prediction equations. Experimental test results are also presented that were used to validate and modify the finite element modeling, and also to confirm the results obtained from the prediction equations. Finally, a design methodology is outlined using the prediction equations.