Externally Reinforced Welded I-Beam-to-Box-Column Seismic Connection

Abstract

This paper presents an externally reinforced I-beam-to-box-column seismic connection. An inclined rib-plated collar-plated configuration with web plates is used to ensure planar continuity between I-beam and box-column webs; the rib plates, inclined in plan between the beam web and the two column web planes, along with collar-plates encircling the box-column at beam flange levels and web plates in plane with the rib plates at the beam web level constitute the new configuration. This connection configuration relieves stresses on box-column flanges and helps in force transfer to the box-column webs. Performance evaluation of the proposed connection configuration shows that sufficient inelasticity is mobilized in the beam away from the column face with connection elements and welds remaining elastic. The seismic performance of the proposed connection is also found to be better than two state-of-the-art connection schemes in terms of higher strength, stiffness, and higher reserve strength of the welds under cyclic displacement loading.