Abstract
A framework to assess the fracture fragility of partial joint penetration (PJP) welded column splices in steel moment frames constructed before the 1994 Northridge earthquake is presented. These pre-Northridge splices feature low flange penetration of the PJP welds, and low-toughness weld materials, such that they are considered susceptible to fracture with possible catastrophic consequences. Estimating their fracture risk is especially important, given that retrofitting them is highly disruptive to building operations. The presented framework addresses shortcomings of previous research and performance assessment guidance that does not consider key mechanistic or statistical effects. To accomplish this, three-dimensional fracture mechanics finite-element simulations are conducted to assess fracture toughness demands. These demands are then interpreted through a master curve–based approach that rigorously considers spatial randomness and weakest-link sampling of weld toughness properties, along with the uncertainty in estimation of these properties. The framework is implemented in a tool which automates the entire process, facilitating application in a professional setting. The tool (and the underlying framework) is demonstrated on a range of splice configurations to examine the effects of configuration, loading, and material parameters. Limitations are outlined.
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Data Availability Statement
Some or all data, models, or code that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
Acknowledgments
The authors are grateful to the Pacific Earthquake Engineering Center (Grant No. 1158-NCTRVI) and the National Science Foundation (Grant No. 2129445) for their support. Input from James Malley and Robert Pekelnicky of Degenkolb Engineers, and Masume Dana and Ali Roufigarinejad of Forell Elsesser Engineers is greatly appreciated. The findings presented in this paper do not reflect those of the sponsors and are solely those of the authors.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Structural Engineering
Volume 149 • Issue 6 • June 2023
Copyright
© 2023 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Jun 11, 2022
Accepted: Jan 24, 2023
Published online: Mar 30, 2023
Published in print: Jun 1, 2023
Discussion open until: Aug 30, 2023
ASCE Technical Topics:
- Columns
- Connections (structural)
- Construction engineering
- Construction methods
- Continuum mechanics
- Cracking
- Engineering fundamentals
- Engineering mechanics
- Finite element method
- Fracture mechanics
- Frames
- Joints
- Material mechanics
- Material properties
- Materials engineering
- Methodology (by type)
- Numerical methods
- Solid mechanics
- Steel columns
- Steel frames
- Structural engineering
- Structural members
- Structural systems
- Toughness
- Welded connections
- Welding
Authors
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Cited by
- Hiroshi Yasumoto, Amit Kanvinde, Chia-Ming Uang, Rupa Garai, Simulation-Based Fracture Assessment of Seismic Moment Frame Connections with Box Columns, Journal of Structural Engineering, 10.1061/JSENDH.STENG-13042, 150, 5, (2024).