Design and Testing of Ratcheting, Tension-Only Devices for Seismic Energy Dissipation Systems

Abstract

ABSTRACTA pair of ratcheting, tension-only ‘Grip ‘n’ Grab’ (GnG) devices, for use with a range of seismic energy dissipation systems, have been developed and tested. Pawl and collet mechanisms have been tested with pitch sizes ranging from 3 to 40 mm, with smaller pitch sizes showing an increase in energy dissipation and inelastic displacement demand in the dissipater. Rapid and solid engagement of the two systems was observed during cyclic testing, with a total of 14 yielding steel dissipaters. Peak tension and compression forces were 65 kN and 1.3 kN, respectively, with damage confined to the dissipative element.