Numerical study of steel beam to reinforce concrete column (RCC) connection with through-plate and buckling-restrained steel plates

Abstract

This study examines the behavior and failure mechanisms of steel beam-to-reinforced concrete column connections with through-plate and buckling-restrained steel plates (BRSPs) configurations. These connections are critical components in composite steel and concrete structures, playing a vital role in force transfer and resistance to various loads, especially dynamic loads such as earthquakes. The primary objective of this study is to analyze the hysteresis behavior of these connections under cyclic loading using numerical analyses. Parametric models with varying BRSP thicknesses, ranging from 5 to 25 mm, were used to investigate their impact on hysteresis behavior and load-bearing capacity. The effects of different BRSP thicknesses on stress distribution and failure mechanisms were analyzed. The results from the parametric studies show that increasing the thickness of BRSPs improves the stress distribution in the beam-to-column connections. This improvement includes reduced stress concentration and enhanced uniformity of stress distribution, which can lead to reduced localized failures and increased overall connection stability. Numerical simulations indicate that the use of BRSPs (with a thickness of 15 and 17 mm) results in wider and more stable hysteresis loops, reflecting increased energy absorption capacity and improved deformation behavior of the connections under cyclic loading. The findings show that BRSPs can reduce failure concentration, increase flexural resistance, and prevent buckling in steel beams. These results underscore the importance of using BRSPs to enhance structural performance and mitigate potential failures under severe loading conditions.