Abstract:  To solve the problems in the design of shear keys for steel column base plates, with the reference to the recent AISC and SCI design manuals, this paper introduces the loading conditions of shear keys, illustrates the method for calculating the load capacity of shear keys by examples, and gives some recommendations for the design and installation based on engineering experiences. Shear key should be designed as cantilever member considering both the bending moment and the shear force. The load capacity of shear key is related to various factors such as section shape and size, installation position, embedded depth, grouting thickness and concrete grade, and is determined by the most unfavorable scenario of several potential failure modes.

Key words:  , steel column base plate, shear key, grouting, cantilever member