A Formula for calculating vertical stiffness of Khorjeeni connections

“Khourjeeni” connection is amongst the most common type of beam-to-column connection in existing steel structures in Iran. In this connection beams pass by the side of columns without being disconnected at the location of beam-column joints. Extensive studies have been carried out either experimentally or analytically to investigate special characteristics of this type of connection including rotational resistance and stiffness، but enough research has not been done about vertical properties of this connection. Vertical strength of connection has received more attention and some empirical formulas have been proposed in this regard، but there is no information about vertical stiffness of this type of connection. Hence، this paper aims to develop an applicable equation for determining the vertical stiffness of this connection by conducting numerical modeling of the connection and employing FEM analyses.