Performances of moment resisting frames with slender composite sections in low-to-moderate seismic areas

[EN] The aim of the recently completed European research program Meakado is therefore to study design options with requirements proportioned to the actual seismic context of constructions in areas characterized by a low or moderate seismic hazard, contrary to most researches aiming at maximizing the seismic performances. In this general framework, specific investigations have been carried out regarding typical beam profiles commonly used for multi-bay - multi-storey composite frames. In a first stage, experimental tests on class-3 composite beam-to-column connections were performed. The measurement results were evaluated with regard to the development of the hysteretic behavior with particular emphasis on the degradation. These test results have been used as reference for the calibration and validation of numerical model aiming at extending the scope of the experimental outcomes through appropriate parametric variations regarding the behavior of nodal connections as well as towards the global analysis and behavior of structures made of class 3 and 4 profiles. Numerical investigations of the global performance of composite frames with slender cross-sections are then performed resorting to the numerical model previously calibrated with respect to the experimental tests and additional simulations at node level. Results are compared to the performance of an equivalent frame made of compact steel profiles. Attention is paid to the effects of strength and stiffness degradation due to local buckling. The analysis of the results is specifically focusing on the comparison of the rotation capacity of the slender section with the actual rotation demand imposed by a moderate intensity earthquake. Based on the outcomes of these investigations, practical design recommendations are finally derived for multi-storey, multi-bay moment resisting frames with type b (full composite action) beam-to column connections located in low and moderate seismicity regions.