Experimental response and design of O-connectors for rocking wall systems. (August 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Twigden, K.M.; Henry, R.S.
• Is Part Of: Structures. Volume 3(2015)
• Page Start: 261
• Page End: 271
• Publication Date: 2015-08
• Subjects: O-connector -- Steel connector -- Concrete wall -- Self-centering -- Post-tensioned -- Energy dissipater; Structural engineering -- Periodicals; 624.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.istruc.2015.06.002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2352-0124

Abstract

Abstract: A unique series of nine cyclic tests were performed on energy dissipating O-connectors for use in seismic resisting unbonded post-tensioned rocking wall systems. The effect of the O-connector profile, steel material and welding process for attaching the O-connectors was investigated and two different failure mechanisms were identified. The welding process used to install the O-connector was found to significantly influence the type of failure mechanism and ductility as such a new O-connector profile was developed to overcome this sensitivity. Design equations to estimate the ultimate strength of the O-connector were proposed and used to develop a bilinear force–displacement approximation. Highlights: A series of nine cyclic tests on O-connector seismic dissipaters were performed. Two failure mechanisms were identified and the less desirable eliminated with a novel design. The welding process was found to have a significant effect on O-connector ductility. Previously observed out-of-plane buckling of the O-connector was mitigated with an improved design. A bilinear force–displacement approximation was proposed and validated.