NZSEE Conference

ABSTRACT: The effects of beam elongation in precast frame systems have been demonstrated to be a potential source of unexpected damage to precast floors. To control the damage to structural elements through the use of rocking systems, alternative solutions have been developed and are currently available to minimize floor damage. Recent research on an innovative “non-tearing floor ” connection using “hybrid ” (rocking-dissipating) connections has shown it to be efficient for mitigating the effects of beam elongation. This contribution presents a series of numerical studies on multi-storey post-tensioned hybrid frames using non-tearing floor connections with different configurations, subjected to pushover and time history analyses to investigate and evaluate the performance of this type of system to earthquake loading. The seismic response of the frames is compared with more traditional systems where the problems of beam elongation and floor damage can be appreciable. The response of the frames confirmed the unique flexibility of the proposed solution and highlighted the superior performance under seismic loading with only minor damage to the frame, wall and floor systems.