Cyclic Load Tests of SFRM-Insulated Steel Gravity Frame Beam-Column Connection Assemblies
Publication: Journal of Structural Engineering
Volume 141, Issue 10
Abstract
Earthquake-induced damage to structural components and spray-applied fire-resistive material (SFRM) in steel gravity frame beam-column connection regions can impact connection performance during an ensuing fire. Bolted connections are particularly susceptible to failure at elevated temperatures due to a rapid loss in bolt capacity with increasing temperature, which occurs at an accelerated rate compared to the thermal degradation of structural steel. In order to characterize structural and SFRM damage over a range of seismic drift demands, two large-scale SFRM insulated beam-column connection assemblies utilizing single-plate and unstiffened seated connection designs, with composite floor slabs, were tested under combined gravity and lateral loading. SFRM cracking, debonding, and spalling were observed during both tests, exposing critical connection elements. In addition, the single-plate connection assembly, which was developed in accordance with U.S. national guidelines but contained design features based on empirical requirements that may lead to deficient performance during a seismic event, experienced multiple bolt shear failures at an interstory drift demand less than 3%. The tests demonstrate that structural and SFRM damage are credible threats during large-magnitude ground shaking, and suggest that demands on gravity connections during a postearthquake fire could be significantly greater than those assumed in a conventional design for fire safety.
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Acknowledgments
The research reported in this paper was supported by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development through the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Technology Alliance. Findings and conclusions are those of the writers, and may not represent the views of the sponsor.
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Information
Published In
Journal of Structural Engineering
Volume 141 • Issue 10 • October 2015
Copyright
© 2015 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Mar 20, 2014
Accepted: Dec 4, 2014
Published online: Jan 19, 2015
Discussion open until: Jun 19, 2015
Published in print: Oct 1, 2015
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