In this paper, the method of direct design based on the limit analysis of high strength bolted tube flange joints subjected to tension is proposed. The validity of the method is confirmed through experimental results summarized below. (1) For the specimens in which the number of bolts is insufficient for required value, the failure was occured at the bolts. On the other hand, the tube was failed in the case when the number of bolts was sufficient. (2) Flange plates which. do not satisfy the required thickness deflected significantly out of its plane. The deflected shapes of flange plates were quite similar to the collapse mechanism assumed in the design, and the collapse loads of flange plates were well predicted by the design. (3) For the specimens in which both requirements as to the number of bolts and the flange thickness were satisfied, the deformation of bolts and flange plate were very small, eventually the tube was failed.
