The basic forms for steel connections have been established for quite a long time (endplates, seating cleats, and web cleats), and they are usually of fairly standard proportions. However, in recent years, the author has noted the appearance of a significant number of connections that are oddly proportioned or unorthodox in concept. There is no harm in novel ideas if they are well executed, but unfortunately the opposite is often the case. Some examples (obviously anonymous) are illustrated (Figs 1-3). Of course, they are not typical of the majority of current steelwork practice, but such poor connections display a serious lack of understanding of engineering principles, and their appearance in significant numbers suggests that present-day detailing standards are not all they might be.
A.N. Beal