2. Connector resistance and connection calculation

2.1 General information on connectors

The function of connectors, distributed along the steel/concrete interface of a composite beam and generally associated with transverse reinforcement, is to safely transmit longitudinal shear forces between the steel section and the slab. In this function, any contribution from bonding (in the physical-chemical sense) should be disregarded, as it is neither easily quantified nor reliable.

• In mixed-use buildings, connections are checked exclusively at ultimate limit states (ULS), except in the very special case of a connection using HR bolts with controlled tightening, where a check at service limit states (SLS) may be useful to limit the risk of slippage. In addition, a slab uplift test is not required...