Requirements for moment connections in statically indeterminate timber structures

In statically indeterminate structures, connections play a vital role in the moment distribution. Demonstrated here is a method to evaluate the conditions, taking full advantage of the benefits offered by the indeterminate nature of the structures, and using the well-established, graphical beam-line method. This method shows how important the immediate load take-up is, the stiffness, the moment capacity of the connection and how it all affects the structural behaviour. The examples considered here use both the traditional non-reinforced dowel-type fastener connections and also timber connections reinforced with steel plates. They show that the minimum rotation requirements to achieve an effective structure are satisfied easily in contrast to requirements on stiffness. In this respect, timber connections with local reinforcement glued at the interface of the connection area offer more prospects.