Fin plates are a simple connection used to connect beams to columns or other beams in steel structures. They are also known as fin plate connections or fin plate joints. Fin plates are usually made of steel and have a rectangular shape with holes for bolts. They are welded to the supporting member (such as a column or a primary beam), and the supported member (such as a secondary beam) is bolted to the fin plate. Fin plates can be configured in different ways, such as long or narrow, single or double rows of bolts, and full depth or partial depth.

• They are easy to manufacture and install, requiring only simple welding and bolting operations.

• They are economical and efficient, using less material and labor than other connections.

• They are flexible and versatile, as they can accommodate different sizes and shapes of beams and columns.

• They are nominally pinned, which means they do not transfer significant moments at the ultimate limit state. This simplifies the design of the beams and columns.