Test and simulation of full-scale self-centering beam-to-column connection

A new type of beam-to-column connection for steel moment frames, designated as a “self-centering connection,” is studied. In this connection, bolted top-and-seat angles, and post-tensioned (PT) high-strength steel strands running along the beam are used. The PT strands tie the beam flanges on the column flange to resist moment and provide self-centering force. After an earthquake, the connections have zero deformation, and can be restored to their original status by simply replacing the angles. Four full-scale connections were tested under cyclic loading. The strength, energy-dissipation capacity, hysteresis curve, as well as angles and PT strands behavior of the connections are investigated. A general FEM analysis program called ABAQUS 6.9 is adopted to model the four test specimens. The numerical and test results match very well. Both the test and analysis results suggest that: (1) the columns and beams remain elastic while the angles sustain plastic deformations for energy dissipation when the rotation of the beam related to the column equals 0.05 rad, (2) the energy dissipation capacity is enhanced when the thickness of the angle is increased, and (3) the number of PT strands has a significant influence on the behavior of the connections, whereas the distance between the strands is not as important to the performance of the connection.