The results of multistage hierarchical validation of the advanced FEM models used to define rotation capacity of steel joints have been presented in the paper. Validation process has been carried out for different models with various level of complexity. Comparative analysis of the FEM models has been conducted in relation to results of own laboratory tests. Developed methodology of formation material characteristic was a base for further analysis of advanced models of end plate beam-to-column connections of in the area of forecasting rotation capacity of the joint and the whole M- curve.

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Experimental tests of steel unstiffened double side bolted end-plate joints have been presented. The main aim of the conducted tests was to check the behavior of joints in an accidental situation and possibility of creating secondary mechanism, i.e. catenary action in the scenario of column loss. Two types of end plate joints were tested: flush end-plate (FP) and extended end-plate (EP) with different thickness and different number of bolt rows in each. The tests were carried out on an isolated cross beam-column-beam type system until joint failure. During tests the available moment resistance and rotation capacity of bending joints and also values of tension forces in the beam were determined. The joints with extended end-plate have demonstrated higher bending and rotational capacity than flush end-plate. Significant deformation of column flanges, web and end plate were observed. The fracture of bolts was the failure mode of joints. Obtained results of axial force values in beam exceeded standard requirement what confirmed that the joints with unstiffened web column, flush or extended end-plate possess the ability of development the catenary action.

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Steel storage pallet racks are three-dimensional framed structures, similar to multi-storey building structures. They are widely used for the storage of different types of materials. To provide the easy accessibility to stored products, pallet racks are not braced in down-aisle direction. The only source of the stiffness required for down-aisle stability is the stiffness of the connections between columns and beams, and the stiffness of the column bases. Connections between columns and beams are realized by means of different types of mechanical devices (tabs, hooks etc) without the need of using bolts and welds. Such joints have non-linear φ − M characteristic. Most of the recent design codes and papers recommend experimental tests of beam-to-column connections to obtain semi-rigid joint characteristics that can be applied in the global analysis. The aim of this paper is to present application of the component method to assess main joint properties, i.e. the moment resistance and initial stiffness of storage rack joints. Results obtained using developed model are compared with the test results.