POST-TENSIONED MOMENT CONNECTIONS FOR SEISMIC RESISTANT STEEL FRAMES

A series of experimental tests were conducted to investigate the behavior of an innovative post-tensioned (PT) top-and-seat-angle wide flange (WF) beam-to-column moment connection for steel moment resisting frames subjected to seismic loading conditions. Nine large-scale specimens were tested. Each specimen represented an interior connection and consisted of two WF beams attached to a column. The parameters investigated in the study include the angle size, angle gage length, beam flange reinforcing plates, connection shim plates, and post-tensioning force. The results of the test program demonstrate that post-tensioned connections possess exceptional cyclic strength and ductility. Energy dissipation occurs in the angles while other structural members remain elastic. The initial elastic stiffness is comparable to that of a welded connection, and following severe inelastic cycles of drift the connection has little permanent deformation