Abstract
Double-bay portal frames have several advantages over two single portal frames positioned adjacent
to each other, however the connecting system can be a challenge, especially if the portal frame is
formed from single cold-formed channels. The portal frames described in this paper consists of a column and
two rafter members, formed from single cold-formed channels sections, and bolted back-to-back at the eaves
joint through a gusset plate. Tests were performed to evaluate the structural performance of the eaves region
of double-bay portal frames. The eaves region represents the distance from the point of maximum moment
(eaves joint) to the point of zero moment (contraflexure) in the rafters and columns respectively. The structures
failed by local buckling in the compression flange and web of the rafters, outside the joints. The moment-
curvature graphs proved that plasticity could not be achieved in these connections.