Cyclic Flexural Testing of Concentrically Braced Frame Beam-Column Connections
Publication: Journal of Structural Engineering
Volume 137, Issue 7
Abstract
This research investigates the cyclic flexural behavior and performance of concentrically braced frame beam-column connections in the context of evaluating the reserve lateral load-resisting capacity in concentrically braced frames. Eight beam-column connections with gusset plates, employing double angle and end plate details, were studied using full-scale experiments to determine their flexural strength, stiffness, and ductility. In this paper, the effects of connection parameters, such as end plate thickness, angle thickness, bolt configuration, weld type and size, and supplementary seat angle, are evaluated. The global connection behavior and performance are quantified using normalized moment versus story drift data. In comparison to a baseline double angle detail, all connection variations increased the strength and stiffness. The end plate variations resulted in larger increases in strength, but drift capacity was limited by bolt fracture. The double angle variations increased the strength by smaller margins, but strength loss occurred more gradually, and larger drifts were sustained. The double angle connection configuration with a supplemental seat angle is shown to provide the best balance of strength and deformation capacity.
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Acknowledgments
Partial funding for this research was provided by the American Institute of Steel Construction. Test specimen materials and fabrication were provided by Novel Iron Works. Inspection of the test specimens was conducted by Briggs Engineering. The basis for this study and the test specimen designs were developed in collaboration with Eric Hines (LeMessurier Consultants and Tufts University) and Peter Cheever (LeMessurier Consultants). The opinions, findings, and conclusions expressed in this paper are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of those acknowledged.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Structural Engineering
Volume 137 • Issue 7 • July 2011
Pages: 739 - 747
Copyright
© 2011 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Apr 19, 2010
Accepted: Oct 6, 2010
Published online: Oct 20, 2010
Published in print: Jul 1, 2011
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