Location of semi-rigid connections effect on the seismic performance of steel frame structures

Abstract

In design steel frames, combining semi-rigid and rigid connections can result in better structural performance, particularly in seismic locations. In this study, the effects of semi-rigid beam-to-column connections located on the seismic performance of steel frame structures are investigated. The analysis uses six and twelve-story moment resisting steel frames (MRSF) with rigid, semi-rigid, and dual beam-column connections. These frames are designed according to the Egyptian design codes.  Drain-2Dx computer program and seven earthquake ground motions are used in the non-linear dynamic analysis. The rotational stiffness of beam-to-column connections is indicated through the end fixity factors with a value equal to 0.6. The performances of these frames are evaluated through the roof drift ratio (RDR), the maximum story drift ratios (SDR), and the maximum column axial compression force (MACF). The results indicated that the quantities of fundamental periods, roof drift ratio, the story drift ratio, and the column axial compression force are related to stiffness, rigidity, and the number of semi-rigid connections in steel frames.