Study on Hysteretic Behavior of Double Angle Connections

In order to study hysteretic behavior of double angle framing connections, based on considering material, geometric and contact state nonlinearity, finite element analysis for steel double web angles framing connections under cyclic load is carried out. Three dimensional solid element is adopted in the connection models. Hysteretic behavior and failure mechanism of this type of connection are analyzed. Experiment study is conducted in order to investigate the seismic behavior of connection further and verify the reliability of the finite element model. The test consisted of subjecting four connection assemblages to increasing level of large cyclic displacements until failure occurred. The results of finite element and experiment indicate that specimens exhibit good ductile behavior; connection rotation exceeded 0.04 radians; the length of angles and the diameter and gage of bolts significantly affect the strength and ductility of connections. As the results of this investigation indicate, considerable moments can be developed in these connections. Therefore, to ensure safety and a realistic dynamic response analysis of steel frames with double angle connections, inclusion of realistic hysteretic characteristics of connection similar to those provided in this paper is essential.