Cyclic Behavior of Double Gusset Plate Connections

Report No. CCEER-98-7This document presents the results of cyclic tests of eight 1/2. scale double gusset plate connections. The specimens represented diagonal member of the Western Spans of SFOBB. The specimens were subjected to lateral, axial, and eccentric load to determine their cyclic behavior and failure mode. The main objective of this research and development program was to investigate the actual cyclic behavior of double gusset plate connection and determine their ultimate capacities. An additional goal of this research program was to establish M-P curves for double gusset plate connections. The main conclusions of this research that edge buckling of double gusset plate is not primary failure mode since the tested plates were capable of supporting additional loads after buckling occurred. However, the post-buckling strength was accompanied by large lateral deflection, which causes concern if serviceability was a limiting concern. This report contains moment-axial interaction curves and procedures in determining the ultimate capacity of double gusset plate connections (Abstract by authors)