Steel Beam-to-Column Connections with SMA Elements

Abstract

Having gained the necessary knowledge on the behaviour of various SMA elements, this chapter focuses on a series of novel SMA-based self-centring steel beam-to-column connections. Different SMA elements, including SMA bolts, SMA Belleville washer springs and SMA ring springs, are considered as kernel elements for these connections. The combined use of different types of SMA elements is also attempted. The influence of the slab system on the behaviour of self-centring connections is discussed, and the issue of frame expansion is particularly raised and addressed. The available experimental studies on these novel connections are presented, enabling a comprehensive understanding of their key performances such as moment–rotation response, ductility, self-centring capability, energy dissipation and possible failure modes. The design recommendations for some typical connections are also presented in this chapter.