Experimental studies of full-scale posttensioned steel connections

Maria M. Garlock, James M. Ricles, Richard Sause

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

310 Scopus citations

Abstract

Six full-scale interior connection subassemblies of posttensioned wide flange beam-to-column moment connections were subjected to inelastic cyclic loading up to 4% story drift to simulate earthquake loading effects. Bolted top and seat angles are used in the connection, along with posttensioned high strength strands that run parallel to the beam. These strands compress the beam flanges against the column flange to develop the resisting moment to service loading and to provide a restoring force that returns the structure to its initial position following an earthquake. The parameters studied in these experiments were the initial posttensioning force, the number of posttensioning strands, and the length of the reinforcing plates. The experimental results demonstrate that the posttensioned connection possesses good energy dissipation and ductility. Under drift levels of 4%, the beams and columns remain elastic, while only the top and seat angles are damaged and dissipate energy. The lack of damage to the beams, columns, and the posttensioning enable the system to return to its plumb position (i.e., it self-centers). Closed-form expressions are presented to predict the connection response and the results from these expressions compare well with the experimental results.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)438-448
Number of pages11
JournalJournal of Structural Engineering
Volume131
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 2005
Externally publishedYes

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Building and Construction
  • General Materials Science
  • Mechanics of Materials
  • Mechanical Engineering

Keywords

  • Connections
  • Energy dissipation
  • Post tensioning
  • Seismic design
  • Steel construction
  • Steel frames
  • Steel structures

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