Abstract
Following the 1994 Northridge and 1995 Hyogo-ken Nambu earthquakes, the potential for possible deterioration and failures in the connections of steel structures due to strong ground motions has been studied and explored. The most typical connection deteriorations have been fractures and deformation softening, as reported in earlier studies. The present study investigates the connection behavior uncertainties in fracture and deformation softening conditions. The connection behavior uncertainties were analyzed by applying a clevis-based mechanical connection under two loading protocols exhibiting far- and near-field earthquakes. In this connection, steel coupons on both sides of a middle pin were used to transfer the bending moment. Two notch patterns were formed on the steel coupons to create fracture conditions. Deformation softening cases were developed by reducing coupons’ cross-sections in various configurations. To compare the uncertainties, seven indicators were considered: (1) capping rotation, (2) fracture rotation, (3) yield bending strength, (4) capping bending strength, (5) residual bending strength, (6) negative post-yield stiffness, and (7) Park and Ang's damage index. The results of various tests, subsequent numerical studies, and nonlinear regression analyses show that some connection behavioral indicators have many uncertainties that should be seriously considered when analyzing structures with these types of connections. In addition to having varying dispersion, different indicators are also dependent on loading protocol characteristics.
Published Version
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