Hysteretic behaviors of steel framed-tube structures with end-plate-connected shear links using finite element modeling

Abstract

Shear links are increasingly used as replaceable energy dissipating elements to achieve resilient structural systems. In this study, the seismic performances of steel framed-tube structures with end-plate-connected low-yield-point steel shear links (SFTS-EPC-LYPSLs) were investigated using finite element analysis (FEA) models informed by cyclic loading tests of LYP225 steel coupons and validated against previously obtained experimental data. Furthermore, a comprehensive design methodology for the bolted end-plate connection between the deep spandrel beam and link was proposed. Finally, an FEA-based parametric analysis conducted in ABAQUS quantified the influences of key design variables on the hysteretic behaviors of the SFTS-EPC-LYPSLs. The results demonstrate that: when the connection configuration satisfied the limit calculated by the proposed design methodology, the SFTS-EPC-LYPSLs exhibited desirable inelastic behaviors and energy-dissipation capacities, with the plastic shear deformation and deformation proportion reaching 0.18 rad and 91%, respectively; the end plates of the spandrel beam and link remained elastic under severe cyclic loading; the design equivalent stiffness ratio of a spandrel beam with a midspan shear link should be greater than 0.7; shear link length ratios of 0.75–1.69 provided overstrength factors of 1.61–2.05, exceeding the 1.5 value stipulated by the design standards; the link length ratio should be 0.75–1.31 to reach a plastic rotation capacity exceeding 0.12 rad; finally, the link web stiffener spacing should satisfy the specification limits to prevent severe web shear and lateral–torsional buckling. The results of this study inform a consistent design methodology to foster the engineering application of SFTS-EPC-LYPSLs.