Premium
Experimental Validation of Detachable Links for Eccentrically Braced Frames
Author(s) -
Bozkurt Mehmet Bakır,
Topkaya Cem
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
ce/papers
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2509-7075
DOI - 10.1002/cepa.1498
Subject(s) - framing (construction) , structural engineering , residual , braced frame , engineering , connection (principal bundle) , steel frame , frame (networking) , welding , computer science , mechanical engineering , algorithm
Eccentrically braced frames (EBFs) subjected to seismic actions dissipate energy through yielding of link members. Other members of the framing are on the other hand designed to remain mainly elastic during a seismic event. The framing can be reused after an earthquake if the link members can be replaced. In line with this, the last decade has witnessed development of replaceable links. However, most of the proposed details are not well suited for replacement under residual drift conditions. Consequently, this paper presents details of an experimental validation of a detachable link concept where a splice connection is introduced at the mid‐length of the link to facilitate replacement under residual frame drift. The concept was studied by conducting six nearly full scale EBF tests under quasi‐static cyclic loading. Different splice details employing bolted connections with vertical slotted or site drilled holes and welded connections were developed. The link length ratio, type of mid‐splice connection and the amount of residual drift were considered as the variables of the testing program. The specimens were subjected to the loading protocol recommended in AISC Seismic Provisions for Structural Steel Buildings (AISC‐341). The experimental results suggested that the detachable links with the proposed connection details can satisfy the link rotation capacity limits of AISC‐341. The detachable links performed similar to conventional links while their replaceability under residual drift was demonstrated.