Study of end-plate type moment connections in moment structural systems with HSS tubular columns and open soul beams

Abstract

The use of square tubular profiles (Hollow structural sections-HSS) provides an alternative for steel buildings located in seismic zones, increasing structural redundancy without incorporating braces and improving performance unlike other column sections. The HSS columns have shown a satisfactory performance under seismic actions, as observed in the Honshu earthquake (2011). The objective of this research is to propose a new connection at moment, called "EP-HSS", using a beam I and HSS tubular columns by means of a configuration outside the prequalification range established in ANSI / AISC 358-10, as an alternative to the traditional porticoes configuration according to current regulations. An analytical, numerical and experimental study was carried out based on the protocols indicated in ANSI / AISC 341-10, obtaining as results that the connection "EP-HSS"allows to concentrate the inelastic action only on the beam, avoiding stress concentration in the column and to achieve a high energy dissipation capacity, ensuring a satisfactory performance under seismic actions without manifestation of fragile failure mechanisms, as specified by the current standards for connection design in seismic.