Author: Ma, Qi
Title: Structural behaviour of a novel reusable column base connection using pinned energy dissipators
Advisors: Chan, Tak-ming (CEE)
Degree: Ph.D.
Year: 2024
Subject: Structural frames -- Joints -- Earthquake effects
Energy dissipation
Joints (Engineering)
Hong Kong Polytechnic University -- Dissertations
Department: Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
Pages: xvi, 220 pages : color illustrations
Language: English
Abstract: This research introduces a novel, yet simple, column base connection that is reusable for moment resisting frames (MRFs). The proposed design incorporates a pinned energy dissipator that effectively absorbs seismic energy. Moreover, the connection utilises the self-weight of the column itself to provide a recentring force. Unlike existing self-centring column base connections, the energy dissipator in this innovative design is equipped with pins to prevent resistance to recentring caused by inelastic deformation after earthquakes. This unique feature ensures that the connection possesses self-centring capability, energy dissipation ability, and reusability. The simplified analytical models developed in this study effectively illustrate the monotonic and cyclic behaviours of the proposed connection. On the basis of the simplified model, the design procedure for the proposed connection was developed.
The performance of the proposed connection was evaluated through a series of comprehensive experimental tests on specimens devised as per the design procedure. During these experiments, the rocking mechanism was successfully demonstrated, and it was observed that the failure mode primarily involved concentrated plastic deformations of the dissipative plates. All of the specimens exhibited exceptional energy dissipation and self-centring capabilities. Furthermore, the repair process simply required the replacement of the damaged dissipative plates, which proved to be advantageous in terms of cost-effectiveness and efficiency. As a result, the repaired specimens regained their load-bearing ability and seismic performance to a comparable level to the original specimens. Besides, the test results were used to validate the simplified analytical models.
Further numerical studies of the proposed connection were conducted in ABAQUS. The comparisons between the finite element (FE) modelling and experimental results indicate that the proposed connection behaves in accordance with expectations, affirming the feasibility of the modelling approach. To investigate the impact of key design parameters on the global and local behaviours of the proposed connection, four groups of FE models with various parameters were constructed involving the global slenderness of the reduced section, the strength factor, the deflection angle of the dissipative plate as well as the vertical compression ratio. The parametric study focused on lateral resistance, ductility, energy dissipation capacity, and reusability. The outcomes contribute to a deeper comprehension of the assumptions and constraints of the design process, offering practical suggestions to enhance the seismic performance of the proposed connection.
Rights: All rights reserved
Access: open access

Files in This Item:
File Description SizeFormat 
7579.pdfFor All Users13.46 MBAdobe PDFView/Open


Copyright Undertaking

As a bona fide Library user, I declare that:

  1. I will abide by the rules and legal ordinances governing copyright regarding the use of the Database.
  2. I will use the Database for the purpose of my research or private study only and not for circulation or further reproduction or any other purpose.
  3. I agree to indemnify and hold the University harmless from and against any loss, damage, cost, liability or expenses arising from copyright infringement or unauthorized usage.

By downloading any item(s) listed above, you acknowledge that you have read and understood the copyright undertaking as stated above, and agree to be bound by all of its terms.

Show full item record

Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://theses.lib.polyu.edu.hk/handle/200/13127