The behaviour of moment-resisting steel frames under various types of
loads is dependent on the type of beam-to-column connections and their
flexibilities. The extended end-plate connection is a practical field
bolted moment connection that can be adopted in moment-resisting stee
l frames with hollow structural steel (HSS) columns, by using high str
ength blind bolts. The objective of this work was to study the behavio
ur of blind bolted extended endplate connections for HSS columns under
cyclic loading. With proper detailing and modelling of such connectio
ns, it has been possible to investigate the effect Df joint flexibilit
y on the response of the frame when subjected to dynamic loading and t
hen to compare its response to that of a rigid frame. It is concluded
that the proposed bolted joint behaves in a predictable manner that ca
n be modelled and analysed using standard frame analysis programmes. T
he study also showed that the inclusion of the connection flexibility
in frame analysis is essential to obtain a more realistic frame behavi
our.