The Importance of Panel Zone Shear Strength on Seismic Behavior of Improved Slotted-web Beam Connections

摘要

It is commonly believed by structural engineering researchers that the slotted-web beam connection rectifies many common weaknesses, and hence this connection is recommended whenever possible. Suitable ductility without considerable strength loss is the most important advantage of this type of special moment connection. The shear force present in beam flanges with lateral torsional buckling are mentioned as the main causes of weld fracture in most connections. The separation of flange from beam's web results in separation of the force shares of beam ' s flange and web; also, removal of the shear from beam's flanges will cause uniform distribution of stress through the width of the beam flange. In this study the seismic behavior of improved slotted-web beam connections is compared with similar samples numerically and experimentally. Results suggest that in case of proper use of beam flange stiffeners, this type of connection does not show any loss of strength and provides suitable ductility. Since shear strength of the panel zone is effective on beam-to-column weld strains, participation of the panel zone in seismic behavior of this type of connection is of interest. Results show that high participation of panel zone effect causes the possibility of weld fracture in beam web to increase and the maximum strength of the connection to decrease. Performance comparisons are made based on envelope curves and percentage of energy dissipation of the specimens. Suitable ductility at this connection proves that this connection shall be classified as special moment connection.