Hysteretic behavior study on connection of PEC columns-steel beam with end plates and pretension high-strength penetrating bolts

The PEC column fabricated with thin-walled built-up section-steel beam connections with reduced cross sections, end plates and pretension high-strength penetrating bolts, the column layout and reduced cross-section location were taken as the design parameters, and 3 specimens were designed and fabricated by 1:0.625 scale, which represented the middle joints. The test of the specimens was conducted under lateral cyclic loading in the column strong or weak axis, the test process was observed and the hysteretic curves were obtained. Based on the test results, the joints' global responses were analyzed, including the hysteretic behaviors, degradation of strength and flexural stiffness, energy-dissipation capacity, the ductility property and the failure mode. The conclusion showed that the specimens exhibited various degrees of self-centering functions, sound ductility and energy-dissipation capacity; the failure mode formed primary induced by yielding in the reduced cross-section or near the welding position of a steel beam. The study provides an experimental basis for amending the specification and engineering practice adopting the structure comprised of PEC columns-steel beams.