In conventional design, shear connections are generally assumed to transfer no significant moment or tension. However, since current progressive collapse design guidelines ask designers to specify robust connections that maintain their integrity in a double-span "column removal" scenario, there is a necessity to investigate anticipated shear connection performance under this specific type of loading. There are several types of simple shear connection used in steel structures, but WT connections are one relatively common option and little is known about how they would perform under these conditions. In this paper, the results of a numerical study conducted to characterize the performance of WT connections under combined shear, moment, and tension are presented. Finite element analysis is used as a tool, and the results are verified with available experimental data. Finite element models consist of a central column stub connected to adjacent beams. The WT connections are modelled as being bolted to the column flange and also to the beam web. The central column stub is pushed down, while the connection demand and performance are monitored at each stage. It is observed that the tension and moment that develop interact with the shear in the load transfer mechanism. Important aspects of the mode of failure are distinguished and compared with existing test data. Based on the results of this study, models are proposed for WT connections in the column removal scenario.
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