Steel and Composite Joints for MRFs in Moderate Seismicity: Experimental and Numerical Program

Abstract

AbstractWithin an ongoing German‐funded research project, a series of beam‐to‐column joints with dissipative bolted connections was developed for Moment‐Resisting Frames designed for moderate seismicity. Due to the new provisions of the German National Annex to EN 1998‐1, the seismic hazard grew in relevance: extended seismic areas and increased spectral acceleration. Thus, seismic load may become a decisive factor on the design of steel and composite frames. Therefore, it was considered reasonable to exploit the inherent ductility of the steel components. However, the demand is considerably lower in Germany than in other regions. While the motivation was to find solutions to address these challenges, the approach was to develop pre‐qualified dissipative beam‐to‐column joints classified as semi‐rigid and partial‐strength for office and industrial buildings that could allow for the use of behavior factors in the range of 1.5/3. The development of the end‐plate connections was based on the German catalogue of typical connections designed for use in the elastic range. These were optimized to perform beyond the elastic range and adapted to the new requirements of the German National Annex. The ongoing experimental tests are performed on full‐scale specimens under monotonic and cyclic loading.