Performance of snug tight bolts in moment end-plate connections

An experimental investigation was conducted to study the behavior of snug tight ASTM A325 bolts in moment end-plate connections for use in single story buildings. Wind loading was deemed to be the critical loading on snug tight bolt, moment end-plate connections. A test loading sequence was established based on a statistical analysis of the 50-year wind loading on low rise buildings. Eleven specimens, representing six end-plate configurations, were tested under cyclic loading covering expected wind loads in the range of 33 to 100 percent of the connection design (allowable stress design) moment. Following the cyclic loading, the specimens were statically loaded to failure, and the experimental strengths were compared with predicted strengths for connections with fully tightened A325 bolts. Additionally, the effect of snug tight bolts on connection stiffness are considered. Finally, recommendations for the use of snug tight bolts in moment end-plate connections were provided.