What are two common types of joints used in steel connections?

Welded joints and bolted joints are the two most common types of connections used in steel construction. Welded joints involve the process of fusing two pieces of steel together using heat, which creates a continuous and strong connection that can bear heavy loads. This is particularly advantageous in structures where strength and rigidity are crucial, such as in bridges and high-rise buildings.

Bolted joints, on the other hand, use mechanical fasteners to connect steel components. They offer the benefit of being easily assembled and disassembled, allowing for adjustments, repair, or dismantling of structures without the need for cutting or additional welding. Bolted connections can accommodate a degree of movement and can often be designed to sustain significant shear and tensile forces.

Riveted joints, although historically significant in steel construction, have largely been replaced by welded and bolted joints. Glued joints are not commonly used in traditional steel connections. Similarly, threaded joints, furnaced joints, screwed joints, and soldered joints are not standard in structural steel applications, making welded and bolted joints the preferred choices in modern construction practices.