The effect of gusset plate in moment-rotation behavior of double-web angle connection in braced frames

Double-web angle connection is one of the most rudimentary connections in simple structural systems such as braced frame system. It is essentially presumed in conventional designs that double-web angle connection behaves as a hinge connection. However, in braced frames, due to existence of braces in some bays, in specified locations where gusset plates of brace are placed with beam-to-column connection in one joint, this assumption may not be accurate. This is due to the restraining of the beam from rotation by gusset plates that are placed either on the top and bottom of the beam or only on one side. In such cases, the simple beam-to-column connection may be transformed into a semi-hinge or fixed connection. In this paper, double-web angle connection is investigated in the mentioned locations by using the FEM method along with calculating moment rotation behavior of connection and, subsequently, type and rigidity of the connection. Furthermore, an analytical model is proposed to predict the characteristics of the doubleweb angle connection in the view of the relevant case