Seismic tests of post-tensioned self-centering building frames with column and slab restraints

Abstract

Post-tensioned (PT) self-centering moment frames have been developed as an alternative to typical moment-resisting frames (MRFs) for earthquake resistance. When a PT frame deforms laterally, gaps between the beams and columns open. However, the gaps are constrained by the columns and the slab in a real PT selfcentering building frame. This paper presents a methodology for evaluating the column restraint and beam compression force based on the column deformation and gap openings at all stories. The method is verified by cyclic tests of a full-scale, two-bay by one-story PT frame. Moreover, a sliding slab is proposed to minimize restraints on the expansion of the PT frame. Shaking table tests were conducted on a reduced-scale, two-by-two bay one-story specimen, which comprises one PT frame and two gravitational frames. The PT frame and gravitational frames are self-centering throughout the tests, responding in phase with only minor differences in peak drifts caused by expansion of the PT frame. When the specimen is excited by a simulation of the 1999 Chi-Chi earthquake with a peak ground acceleration of 1.87 g, the maximum interstory drift and the residual drift are 7.2% and 0.01%, respectively.

Numerical Investigation of the Collapse of a Steel Truss Roof and a Probable Reason of Failure

“…In addition, the loads caused by dynamic effects such as earthquakes could lead to failure [14][15][16]. Structures are more vulnerable to dynamic loads than they are to static loads [17][18][19]. A way to improve the performance of structures against dynamic loads is to add damping to the structure [20].…”

Numerical Investigation of the Collapse of the Steel Truss Roof and a Probable Reason of Failure

“…Also, the loads caused by dynamical effects such as earthquakes could lead to failure [14][15][16]. Structures are more vulnerable to dynamic loads than static loads [17][18][19]. A way to improve the performance of structures against the dynamic loads is to add damping to the structure [20].…”