Which best describes a mechanical connection that can be used only for transferring compression from bar to bar?

Which best describes a mechanical connection that can be used only for transferring compression from bar to bar?

• A. End-Bearing Connection
• B. Hot Forged Steel Sleeve
• C. Threaded Steel Coupling
• D. Cold Forged Steel Sleeve

Answer: (A)

End-bearing connections carry the load through contact between the ends of the bars (or against a bearing surface). This arrangement is naturally suited to transferring axial load in compression because the load is supported by bearing pressure on the end faces; in tension the bars would tend to separate from the bearing surface, offering little to no load transfer. Sleeves and threaded couplings transfer load through the engagement of the sleeve walls or threads, and are designed to handle both tension and compression, not limited to compression only. Hence, the end-bearing connection best fits the description of a mechanical connection used only for transferring compression.

End-bearing connections carry the load through contact between the ends of the bars (or against a bearing surface). This arrangement is naturally suited to transferring axial load in compression because the load is supported by bearing pressure on the end faces; in tension the bars would tend to separate from the bearing surface, offering little to no load transfer.

Sleeves and threaded couplings transfer load through the engagement of the sleeve walls or threads, and are designed to handle both tension and compression, not limited to compression only. Hence, the end-bearing connection best fits the description of a mechanical connection used only for transferring compression.