Steel Beam-to-Column RBS Connections: FEM Analysis under Cyclic Loading

In a companion paper [1], an optimization scheme for extended-end-plate Reduced Beam Section (RBS) connections of steel-moment-frames was presented, based on the component method of Eurocode 3, on regression analysis and on principles of Mechanics under monotone loading. European beam and column profiles were utilized, in conjunction with geometric restrictions and constraints of North American and European Standards for prequalified radius-cut RBS. Τhe aforementioned method aimed for an excellent seismic performance, the verification and validation of which is the content of the present study. Using FEM modeling and accounting for the assumptions used in the optimum design, after calibration with existing experimental data, the optimum connections were numerically analyzed under cyclic loading, adopting a well-accepted displacement-based protocol. All optimum solutions exhibited an excellent cyclic response, and met very satisfactorily all the performance criteria for seismic design. Results in terms of hysteretic M-φ curves at three characteristic areas of the connections validate the whole analysis, a fact aiming to assist in incorporation the radius-cut RBS concept in European Steel Design Codes and engineering practice.