Research on Hysteretic Behavior of Angle Beam-Column Connections Fengxia Li

In practice most connections actually show semi-rigid deformation behavior that can contribute substantially to overall displacements of the structure and to the distribution of member forces. So it is very necessary that studying the behavior of these semi-rigid connections under cyclic reversal loading. Two full-scale specimens of top-mounted-angle using H-section member had been conducted. The specimens were subjected to cyclic reversal loading simulating earthquake effects on a steel moment-resisting force. The objective of the work is to determine the behavior of these connections under cyclic reversal loading well into the inelastic range and to ascertain the effect of design parameters such as column flange stiffener, pre-tension of bolts and the top-mounted-angle steel flange thickness on the overall behavior. Observations were made concerning the response of the connections and its elements in terms of strength, stiffness and energy dissipation. Information on the design of these connections is presented. It is concluded that top-mounted-angle connections can possess the relative high stiffness, strength and excellent ductility as moment-resisting components in the seismic design of frames. Most of the input energy was dissipated in top-mounted-angle while the column participated a little in the energy dissipation process in the test. It is analyzed that the preload of bolt, contact pressure of the components and the other components' mechanical properties by nonlinear analysis. These consequences are good reference for the engineering design.