Reliability of steel beams and connections

The objective of this study is to present the reliability models for steel beams and connections for application in the new generation of design codes. Two load components are considered, dead load and live load, with a wide range of dead-to-live load ratios. The statistical parameters are taken from the available literature for buildings. Resistance is calculated for non-composite and composite beams and two types of connectors: high-strength bolts and fillet welds. Reliability indices are calculated for beams and connections designed according to the AISC Steel Construction Manual. Target reliability index is discussed for beams, bolts and welds. The reliability indices are calculated for several optional values of the resistance factor.