Link-to-Column Connection with Supplemental Web Doublers in Eccentrically Braced Frames
Publication: Journal of Structural Engineering
Volume 141, Issue 8
Abstract
When an eccentrically braced frame configuration requires that the links be connected to the columns, standard seismic guidelines offer little guidance on the link-to-column connection design. Recent testing showed that several welded moment connection details that have been developed after the 1994 Northridge earthquake for special moment frames still cannot prevent brittle fracture in the link flange groove welds. In support of an experimental study on the development of reliable link-to-column connection details, the supplemental web doubler connection is proposed. The connection uses a pair of partial-height doubler plates that are parallel to and offset from the web in the link panel next to the column. Finite-element analyses were conducted to guide the development of design requirements, including the minimum reinforced length, minimum supplemental doubler thickness, and weld design requirement. A closed-form solution, with some minor adjustment based on the finite-element analysis results, for the calculation of the required shear force in the supplemental doublers is also proposed. A step-by-step design procedure is presented.
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Acknowledgments
The American Institute of Steel Construction sponsored the research reported in this paper. The advice and support provided by Mr. Tom Schlafly (AISC Director of Research), Dr. Tom Sabol, and Dr. Subhash Goel throughout the research reported in this paper are greatly appreciated. The opinions expressed in this paper are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the sponsor or the individuals noted in this paper.
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Published In
Journal of Structural Engineering
Volume 141 • Issue 8 • August 2015
Copyright
© 2014 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Oct 5, 2013
Accepted: Aug 11, 2014
Published online: Sep 18, 2014
Discussion open until: Feb 18, 2015
Published in print: Aug 1, 2015
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