Experiments on Seismic Performance of RC Frames with Hinging Columns

Abstract

The seismic behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) frames with hinging columns, also known as strong‐beam–weak‐column (SBWC) frames, is studied from earthquake‐simulation test results of two small‐scale models. The models were subjected to scaled earthquake motions of various intensities on a unidirectional shake table. The paper describes some of the dynamic response measurements and their implication for SBWC‐frame performance. The response of the model structures to the “design” motion is found to be acceptable when large discontinuities in the vertical distribution of lateral strength are avoided. Maximum inelastic drifts of the structures were controlled through appropriate member proportioning, and stories comprising hinging columns exhibited adequate force‐deformation behavior and developed moderate displacement ductility factors.