Welded Connections in Round Bar Steel Structures

Welded connections in round bar steel structures are studied with a view to clarifying the strength and stiffness characteristics of the various types of connections commonly used. Various forms of butt-welded joints in round bar members and various types of connections between round bars and other structural elements, e.g., gusset plates in trussed structures, are examined. The main emphasis in the investigation is laid upon the fatigue strength of the connections, but tests to determine the static strength of the various connection types are also included. The test results obtained in the investigation make possible, for both statically loaded structures and structures subjected to fatigue, the selection of the optimum connection, taking into consideration strength as well as production costs.