Seismic Performance Evaluation of Concrete-filled U-shaped Mega Composite Beams

Abstract

Seismic Performance Evaluation of Concrete-filled U-shaped Mega Composite Beams U-shaped composite beam;Seismic composite connection;Ordinary moment frames;Web local buckling;Finite element analysis; In this paper, the applicability of a 1900mm-deep concrete-filled U-shaped composite beam to composite ordinary moment frames (C-OMFs) was investigated based on existing test results from smaller-sized specimens and supplemental numerical studies since full-scale seismic testing of such a huge sized beam is practically impossible. The key issue was the web local buckling of concrete-filled U section under negative bending. Based on 13 existing test results compiled, the relationship between web slenderness and story drift capacity was obtained. From this relationship, a 1900mm-deep mega beam, fabricated with 25mm-thick plate was expected to experience the web local buckling at 2% story drift and eventually reach a story drift over 3%, thus much exceeding the requirements of C-OMFs. The limiting width to thickness ratio according to the 2010 AISC Specification was shown to be conservative for U section webs of this study. The test-validated supplemental nonlinear finite element analysis was also conducted to further investigate the effects of the horizontal stiffeners (used to tie two webs of a U section) on web local buckling and flexural strength. First, it is shown that the nominal plastic moment under negative bending can be developed without using the horizontal stiffeners, although the presence of the stiffeners can delay the occurrence of web local buckling and restrain its propagation. Considering all these, it is concluded that the 1900mm-deep concrete-filled U-shaped composite beam investigated can be conservatively applied to C-OMFs. Finally, some useful recommendations for the arrangement and design of the horizontal stiffeners are also recommended based on the numerical results.