Section J4.1/Strength of Affected Elements
AISC 360-22 Section J4 covers the strength of plates, gussets, and flanges at connections including yielding, rupture, and block shear.
The design strength of affected elements at connections must be checked for: tensile yielding on the gross section (Fy x Ag), tensile rupture on the net section (Fu x Ae), and block shear rupture (combination of shear on one plane and tension on a perpendicular plane). For compression, the element must also be checked for buckling if it is unsupported. The controlling limit state (lowest value) determines the connection capacity.
Why this section exists
A connection is only as strong as its weakest link. Even if the bolts or welds are adequate, the plates, angles, or flanges transferring the forces can fail by tearing, yielding, or buckling. Block shear is a particularly common failure mode in bolted connections where a chunk of material tears out along the bolt pattern. Checking all three limit states ensures the connected elements are adequate for the design forces.
What plan reviewers look for
Plan reviewers check that connection plates, gusset plates, and member flanges or webs at connections are adequately sized. They verify that the connection detail shows enough material around the bolt pattern to prevent block shear. They check that gusset plate thicknesses are specified and that net section is evaluated where bolt holes reduce the cross-section.
Common violations
Related AISC 360 requirements
Section J3.1 covers bolt design. Section J2.2 covers weld design. Section D2 covers the design of tension members. Section J4.3 covers block shear rupture strength specifically.