Moment-Rotation Characteristics of Column Base Plate to Foundation Connections

摘要

This study concerns itself with the experimental investigation of connections between steel columns and concrete foundations which are conventionally classified as pinned. This implies that a bending moment cannot be transferred between the column and foundation. Five pairs of pinned connections and one type of moment resisting or fixed connection were tested. Each connection was tested in both the major and minor axis of bending of the connection column. The objectives of the tests reported herein were to determine and quantify the moment-rotation characteristics of pinned connections. The connection or specimen selection, specimen preparation, test set-up, equipment and instrumentation, the test procedure, and the specimen behavior are described herein. Moment-rotation curves are presented for each specimen as well as recommended rotational spring constants for these connections. From the results of this investigation, it may be concluded that the pinned connections tested offer a degree of fixity which should not be ignored when evaluating existing structures under lateral loads for compliance with current building codes. The use of the rotational spring constants presented in this report should enable a more realistic analysis of structures, and, hopefully, prevent unwarranted modifications of existing structures to bring them within compliance with current requirements. (ERA citation 06:031070)