STRUCTURAL BEHAVIOR OF ECCENTRIC BEAM-TO-RHS COLUMN CONNECTIONS

Abstract

 Eccentric wide flange beam-to-RHS column connections with the eccentricity ratio varies from 0 to 0.25 were tested under cyclic loadings. The effects of eccentricity on the beam's plastic deformation capacity are discussed, together with the effects on the behavior of the panel zone. The joint efficiency of beam web was investigated through the experimental and theoretical results. In addition, finite element analyses were conducted. The stress distribution between two pieces of panels, which is very important in evaluating the connection behavior and could not be obtained during the experiments, was also discussed through the FEM analyses.