The behavior of metal-plate-connected (MPC)joints has been thoroughly
researched under various static loading scenarios; however, little res
earch has been performed on MPC joints subjected to dynamic loading. T
his research investigates the effects of dynamic loading on MPC joints
. This investigation follows procedures similar to those used for stud
ies of nailed connections due to the similarities of the two types of
connections. Six configurations of MPC truss joints were tested under
static and dynamic loading. Static tests were performed to obtain maxi
mum static strength and static stiffness values for the different conf
igurations. Each configuration was then subjected to dynamic loading a
nd then statically loaded to failure. An accepted model of the load-sl
ip behavior of MPC joints was fit to the data acquired from static tes
ts before and after dynamic loading. The residual effects of the appli
ed dynamic loading on the tested MPC joints were quite minimal. The te
sted MPC joints developed similar static load properties before and af
ter dynamic loading. While the dynamically loaded connections generall
y developed less initial static stiffness than their static-load-only
counterparts, they maintained most of their static load resistance. Th
is resistance to residual effects of dynamic loading makes these MPC j
oints suitable for use in structures situated in high seismic or wind
zones.