What do pin-type connections resist?

Pin-type connections primarily resist vertical loads. These connections allow for rotation while providing support against loads acting in the vertical direction. They facilitate the transfer of vertical forces, such as those from gravity or static loads applied to a structure, effectively preventing any vertical displacement.

In structural engineering, understanding the behavior of pin connections is essential since they help in maintaining the equilibrium of structures under vertical loading conditions. The rotational freedom associated with pin connections limits their ability to effectively resist lateral, torsional, or compression forces, which are typically managed by different types of connections or structural systems. These characteristics make pin-type connections crucial for specific applications, particularly in frames subjected to vertical loads, such as beams in a truss system.