Cyclic Behavior of Built Up Steel Members and their Connections

Abstract

This report presents the results of the cyclic tests of six one-half scale double gusset plate connections, one built-up laced steel member, and one built-up perforated steel member. The test specimens were representative of connections and members of the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge. The main objectives were to investigate the cyclic behavior of the specimens, determine their ultimate capacities, and determine their failure modes.

The study concluded that edge buckling of double gusset plates is not a primary failure mode since the tested plates were capable of supporting additional loads after buckling occurred. The study also concluded that the lacing and rivet capacities of the laced member were not sufficient to maintain the integrity of the cross section, and as a result, the sectional properties, specifically the moment of inertia, need to be reduced to predict the axial compression capacity. (by authors)