Structural tee hangers are a popular tension connection, yet current design procedures are cumbersome, and excessively conservative. Also, no provisions are made for the additional strength gain due to stiffeners. Past research has shown that the design of these connections is controlled by either plate yielding or bolt rupture.

This study presents a simplified method for determining the ultimate strength of structural tee hanger connections. Yield line analysis is used for the determination of the yield capacity of the connection based on plate strength. A simplified version of the Kennedy method is used for calculating connection capacity based on bolt strength with prying action. The simplified design procedure is verified with comparison to results of 15 connection tests. Design recommendations are made and examples presented.