HOW AND WHY TO SPECIFY
CAST CONNEX UNIVERSAL PIN
CONNECTORS
How and Why to Specify Cast Connex Universal Pin Connectors
There are a variety of reasons for and ways in which pin connections are incorporated into structure
and architecture. In structural engineering, pin connections are used to release flexural forces in
the pin ended member at the location and in the axis of the pin. In architecture, pin connections
are most often used as a means of tectonic expression; that is, to create a visual portrayal of the
way in which the structure was constructed and the way that forces are resisted by the structure.
Our catalog provides design inspiration that may be useful to get started and to share with
associates and clients.
Fig.1. (1) University of Lethbridge, AB (2) Barrie Library, ON (3) Whitney Museum of American Art, NY.
Emory University Hospital Pedestrian
Bridge, GA
Designed by SmithGroup
Structural Engineers: Walter P Moore
Page 3
How and Why to Specify Cast Connex Universal Pin Connectors
Cast Connex® Universal Pin Connectors™ are sleek, clevis-type pre‑engineered fittings. Their
sculpted design provides smooth transitional geometry that is otherwise unachievable using
standard fabrication practices. Universal Pin Connectors are a complete connection solution as
they are supplied with the associated steel pins and electropolished stainless steel washers, cap
plates, and cap screws. The connectors are available off the shelf in sizes to match standardized
pipe ranging from 3.5-inch (88.9 mm) OD to 24-inch (610 mm) outer diameter. The connectors are
a smart and affordable choice when compared against conventionally fabricated connections that
attempt to meet a similar aesthetic as provided by the connectors. Moreover, the use of Universal
Pin Connectors vastly simplifies the design, detailing, fabrication, and subsequent inspection and
acceptance of critical AESS connections.
Fabrication of round HSS members equipped with UPCs is very straightforward and lends itself very
well to automation. Product users need only cut the HSS member to length (no weld preparation
is necessary as the castings are provided with a weld shoulder cast into their nozzle end), fit the
connectors to the ends of the members, and weld the connectors to the HSS. These welds can be
achieved using continuous down-hand welding with the member mounted on a turning roll. In
this way, members equipped with UPCs can be processed very rapidly and with very high quality
and reliability.
Fig.2. Cast Connex® Universal Pin Connector (UPC-12.75 / UPC-324)
Fig.3. Fabricating members equipped with Cast Connex Universal Pin Connectors is straightforward
Page 4 Page 5
How and Why to Specify Cast Connex Universal Pin Connectors
Another advantage offered by the Universal Pin Connectors in exterior applications is that their
smooth shaping provides a superior substrate for coating system adhesion and contributes
to lifecycle performance of the corrosion protection coating system. Conversely, fabricated
connections feature crevices, plate edges, and weld joint pits that are notorious sites for the
initiation of coating system failure.
The specification of Universal Pin Connectors in contract documents is straightforward.
The first step in specification is to determine the appropriate size of connector to utilize at each
connection. Designers should download the latest product information for a listing of the current
connector range, geometric information, and factored strengths/resistances. Select a connector
having a strength greater than the governing factored axial design load in the connected
member. Since our Universal Pin Connectors are manufactured in discrete sizes, also confirm
that the selected connector matches the diameter of the member to which it is to connect. For
example, a UPC-6.625 (UPC-168) only works with HSS/Pipe members having an outer diameter of
6.625-inches (168mm). In cases where the diameters do not match, increase the size of the HSS/
Pipe member to ensure geometric compatibility. In jurisdictions where connection design is not-
delegated, designers need also design and check the gusset plate resistance against the factored
design load (we provide guidance for that on our datasheets as well). Note that rotational fixity
should be released for both strong and weak-axis flexure at the location of the pinned connection
Fig.4. Sample drawing details illustrating specification of Cast Connex Universal Pin Connectors
in the structural engineer’s frame analysis model of the structure. In cases where both ends of the
member are not pinned, the vector-sum of the axial load and shear force in the member at the
pinned end should not exceed the connector’s tabulated strength. Note that the connectors are
not intended to transmit shear in the out-of-plane direction of the pin, nor to rotate when under When specifying Universal Pin Connectors, including Cast Connex-provided specification
load. Please reach out to our technical team with any questions or to discuss special applications - language in your project’s Division 5 specification is also strongly recommended, as it provides
we have a lot of experience in getting more out of our connectors and are always happy to assist! valuable information on product usage including but not limited to requirements for welding
procedures, requirements for welds between the connector and the attaching HSS to be ground
In the contract documents, Universal Pin Connectors need to be shown diagrammatically and smooth (or otherwise filled and sanded, depending upon loading and coating system selection),
unambiguously in the structural steel drawings, typically in connection details, bracing elevations, and information on pin hardware.
and/or column details. Calling specifically for Universal Pin Connectors by Cast Connex is the
best way to ensure that they are incorporated into the construction of the project; however, in
some instances clients prefer to include language that allows for the consideration of “approved
alternates”. When alternates will be considered, it is important that the language selected ensures
that if the contractors wish to make use of another connection that the design team have the
final say as to the acceptability of the alternative on grounds which include structural suitability in
addition to architectural performance and aesthetics.
Page 6 Page 7
How and Why to Specify Cast Connex Universal Pin Connectors
Datasheets, CAD and BIM resources, and sample specification language related to the specification
of our Universal Pin Connectors can all be found on our website, and our team is always available
to provide technical support.
Cast Connex CAD Assets: https://bit.ly/3hh3BWv
Cast Connex BIM Assets: https://bit.ly/32ATeZp
Cast Connex Catalog: https://bit.ly/3jgNo5o
Specify Cast Connex Cast Connex® Universal Pin Connectors™ to have your building designs
look their best – and Beautify Affordably.
University of Connecticut Innovation
Partnership Building, CT
Designed by Skidmore, Owings and Merrill
Structural Engineers: Skidmore, Owings
and Merrill.
Page 8 Page 9
www.castconnex.com
@castconnex
+1-416-806-3521 info@castconnex.com
