Assign Frame Beam Connection Types
The is used to assign the type of connection to be used by Frame beams.
The following types are available:
The Standard type is the type by default, and it is based on the Fixity assignments (Fixed or Pinned). Since this is the default type it isn’t necessary to make this assignment, this option is only available here to provide a way of clearing some other Connection Type assignment.
The Springs type only affects the beam’s Major axis, and can be assigned to either or both ends of the beam. The options include No Spring (in which case it will use the assigned Fixity), a specified spring stiffness value, and a spring stiffness as a percent of the beam stiffness.
The Custom type can be assigned to either or both ends of the beam. The various beam section properties will be modified by the specified Stiffness Multipliers. The distance indicates the zone (from center-line of support) over which these modified stiffnesses will be applied.
The Reduced Beam Section (RBS) type is assigned to both beam ends. The flange cut dimensions associated with each size can be specified using the RBS Properties>> button or the command. The reduced section is pertinent to both analysis and design. There is an option to either use the reduced section (which will give more accurate displacement results) or the full section in the analysis. Design checks are performed at the cut.
The SidePlate type can be assigned to either or both ends of the beam. The properties of the connection zone are assigned to the beam based on criteria selected in the command and on technical data provided by SidePlate Systems.
The DuraFuse type connection can be assigned to either or both ends of the beam. The program creates a special analytical model at the end of beam where DuraFuse connection is assigned. This includes creating special segments on the beam as well as on column(s) supporting the beam. In addition, the program inserts a special panel zone element at the joint where the beam and column(s) are connected. Properties of DuraFuse connection are based on criteria selected in the . Furthermore, additional connection parameters can be defined in .
The Yield-Link type can be assigned to either or both ends of the beam. The properties of the connection zone are assigned to the beam based on the criteria selected in the command and on the technical data provided by Simpson Strong-Tie.
The Fixity assignment impacts the implementation of these connection types; if a beam end is assigned to be Pinned, it will be treated as Pinned regardless of any assignment of connection types. This means that for Springs and Reduced Beam Section, the beam should be Fixed in the Major Axis; the fixity in the Minor Axis and Torsionally are as preferred by the user but are usually assigned to be Fixed for moment connections. For Custom and SidePlate the beam should be Fixed in both axes and torsionally.
See Beam Connections with Rigid End Zones for information on how the Rigid End Zone option impacts the Reduced Beam Section connection.