Experimental Performance of Hybrid Frames Systems with Non-Tearing Floor Connections

Abstract eng:
The effects of beam elongation in precast frame systems have been demonstrated to be a potential source of un-expected damage to precast floor systems, unless adequate detailing is provided to account for displacement incompatibilities between the lateral resisting systems and the floor. The Precast Concrete Seismic Structural Systems (PRESSS) research program carried out in the 1990s has shown the efficiency of dry-jointed ductile connections for moment resisting frames in order to reduce damage while sustaining high lateral loads. However, damage to precast floor systems, resulting from the geometric elongation of the beam, has yet to be addressed in detail. In this contribution, an overview of alternative solutions developed to control and reduce the damage to the floor system is given. The concept of an articulated jointed floor connection for a gapping frame system is first presented. Special attention is then given to an innovative frame connection, referred to as “non-tearing floor”, designed to minimize the problems associated with beam elongation effects, regardless of the floor system adopted, while maintaining low-damage and re-centering characteristics of the hybrid connections. The concept is presented along with the experimental response and validation with a two storeys precast concrete frame system, 2/3 scaled, The experimental and analytical results confirm the unique flexibility of both proposed solutions highlighting their superior seismic performance when compared to traditional systems: minor damage to the frame, wall and floor systems is achieved even under major earthquake loading.

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