Selected aspects of experimental tests of steel end-plate joints subjected to impact loading

<ns3:p>The article presents challenges, preparations and selected results from the first experimental tests in Poland of bolted end-plate joints of steel structures subjected to impact loading. The tests were carried out on specimen in a cross beam-column-beam configuration using bolted end-plate joints. The impact energy was generated by a free falling steel-concrete package. Special measuring equipment dedicated to dynamic tests was used. The tests focused mainly on measuring deformations and displacements. The obtained test results allowed determining the strain rate and the dynamic influence factor (DIF) for selected specimen elements. The end-plate joints showed significant ductility and load-bearing capacity during the test. The weakest component of the joint turned out to be the bolts</ns3:p>