Blind bolted side connection to unfilled hollow section columns

Hollow sections have become increasingly popular in structural applications due to their structural efficiency. However, their use in low rise structures is hampered by the limited means of providing fully bolted site connections. This limitation can be overcome by using blind bolting system which requires access to one side only. This eliminates both the problem of lack of access and also the need to weld various accessories to the hollow sections. This paper is part of an ongoing research project which focuses on the development of a range of connections to hollow sections using blind bolts. The paper presents the results of an experimental program for blind bolted channel side plate connections to unfilled hollow section columns under static loading. The channel side plate connection was found to be much stiffer than a typical face connection and has the potential to achieve a rigid connection for braced frames according to the EC3 classifications.