Experimental Research on Hysteretic Behavior of Angles Beam-column Connections

Most steel beam-column 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 angles steel 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, pretension of bolts and the angles 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. The hysteretic behavior of angles beam-column connections under cyclic loading is presented in this paper. Rotational stiffness, the carrying capacity and ductility of top-seat angles connections are analyzed. It is concluded that angles 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 the flange of angles while the column participated a little in the energy dissipation process in the test.