Cyclic Tests of Concrete-Filled Steel Box Columns

Abstract

The purpose of this experimental study is to investigate the influences of the filled-in concrete on the strength, ductility and energy absorption capacity of the column. A total of 12 concrete-filled steel box column specimens modeling steel bridge piers were tested under a constant compressive axial load and cyclic lateral loads. In designing the specimens, the plate width-thickness ratio, slenderness ratio and length of the filled-in concrete were chosen as main parameters. Moreover, the effect of the diaphragm over the concrete, on the column behavior was also examined. The collapse characteristics of tested specimens were presented in detail to provide some useful information for understanding of their inelastic behavior under cyclic loading. Test results were also discussed in the light of improvement of ductility and energy-absorption capacity of steel bridge piers. It is concluded that concrete-filled steel box columns can be effectively used as bridge substructures in strong earthquake areas.