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Keywords = beam–column connections

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23 pages, 5594 KiB  
Article
Dynamic Properties of Steel-Wrapped RC Column–Beam Joints Connected by Embedded Horizontal Steel Plate: Experimental Study
by Jian Wu, Mingwei Ma, Changhao Wei, Jian Zhou, Yuxi Wang, Jianhui Wang and Weigao Ding
Buildings 2025, 15(15), 2657; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15152657 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 269
Abstract
The performance of reinforced concrete (RC) frame structures will gradually decrease over time, posing a threat to the safety of buildings. Although the performance of some buildings may still meet the safety requirements, they cannot meet new usage requirements. Therefore, this paper proposes [...] Read more.
The performance of reinforced concrete (RC) frame structures will gradually decrease over time, posing a threat to the safety of buildings. Although the performance of some buildings may still meet the safety requirements, they cannot meet new usage requirements. Therefore, this paper proposes a new-type joint to promote the development of research on the reinforcement and renovation of RC frame structures in response to this situation. The RC beams and columns of the joints are connected by embedded horizontal steel plate (a single plate with dimension of 150 mm × 200 mm × 5 mm), and the beams and columns are individually wrapped in steel. Through conducting low cyclic loading tests, this paper analyzes the influence of carrying out wrapped steel treatment and the thickness of wrapped steel of the beam and connector on mechanical performance indicators such as hysteresis curve, skeleton curve, stiffness, ductility, and energy dissipation. The experimental results indicate that the reinforcement using steel plate can significantly improve the dynamic performance of the joint. The effect of changing the thickness of the connector on the dynamic performance of the specimen is not significant, while increasing the thickness of wrapped steel of beam can effectively improve the overall strength of joint. The research results of this paper will help promote the application of reinforcement and renovation technology for existing buildings, and improve the quality of human living. Full article
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26 pages, 10740 KiB  
Article
A Nonlinear Computational Framework for Optimizing Steel End-Plate Connections Using the Finite Element Method and Genetic Algorithms
by Péter Grubits, Tamás Balogh and Majid Movahedi Rad
Algorithms 2025, 18(8), 460; https://doi.org/10.3390/a18080460 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 241
Abstract
The design of steel connections presents considerable complexity due to their inherently nonlinear behavior, cost constraints, and the necessity to comply with structural design codes. These factors highlight the need for advanced computational algorithms to identify optimal solutions. In this study, a comprehensive [...] Read more.
The design of steel connections presents considerable complexity due to their inherently nonlinear behavior, cost constraints, and the necessity to comply with structural design codes. These factors highlight the need for advanced computational algorithms to identify optimal solutions. In this study, a comprehensive computational framework is presented in which the finite element method (FEM) is integrated with a genetic algorithm (GA) to optimize material usage in bolted steel end-plate joints, while structural safety is ensured based on multiple performance criteria. By incorporating both material and geometric nonlinearities, the mechanical response of the connections is accurately captured. The proposed approach is applied to a representative beam-to-column assembly, with numerical results verified against experimental data. By employing the framework, an optimized layout is obtained, yielding a 10.4% improvement in the overall performance objective compared to the best-performing validated model and a 39.3% reduction in material volume relative to the most efficient feasible alternative. Furthermore, a 53.6% decrease in equivalent plastic strain is achieved compared to the configuration exhibiting the highest level of inelastic deformation. These findings demonstrate that the developed method is capable of enhancing design efficiency and precision, underscoring the potential of advanced computational tools in structural engineering applications. Full article
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25 pages, 5545 KiB  
Article
Finite Element Analysis of the Mechanical Performance of an Innovative Beam-Column Joint Incorporating V-Shaped Steel as a Replaceable Energy-Dissipating Component
by Lin Zhang, Yiru Hou and Yi Wang
Buildings 2025, 15(14), 2513; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15142513 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 218
Abstract
Ductile structures have demonstrated the ability to withstand increased seismic intensity levels. Additionally, these structures can be restored to their operational state promptly following the replacement of damaged components post-earthquake. This capability has been a subject of considerable interest and focus in recent [...] Read more.
Ductile structures have demonstrated the ability to withstand increased seismic intensity levels. Additionally, these structures can be restored to their operational state promptly following the replacement of damaged components post-earthquake. This capability has been a subject of considerable interest and focus in recent years. The study presented in this paper introduces an innovative beam-column connection that incorporates V-shaped steel as the replaceable energy-dissipating component. It delineates the structural configuration and design principles of this joint. Furthermore, the paper conducts a detailed analysis of the joint’s failure mode, stress distribution, and strain patterns using ABAQUS 2022 finite element software, thereby elucidating the failure mechanisms, load transfer pathways, and energy dissipation characteristics of the joint. In addition, the study investigates the impact of critical design parameters, including the strength, thickness, and weakening dimensions of the dog-bone energy-dissipating section, as well as the strength and thickness of the V-shaped plate, on the seismic behavior of the beam-column joint. The outcomes demonstrate that the incorporation of V-shaped steel with a configurable replaceable energy-dissipating component into the traditional dog-bone replaceable joint significantly improves the out-of-plane stability. Concurrently, the V-shaped steel undergoes a process of gradual flattening under load, which allows for a larger degree of deformation. In conclusion, the innovative joint design exhibits superior ductility and load-bearing capacity when contrasted with the conventional replaceable dog-bone energy-dissipating section joint. The joint’s equivalent viscous damping coefficient, ranging between 0.252 and 0.331, demonstrates its robust energy dissipation properties. The parametric analysis results indicate that the LY160 and Q235 steel grades are recommended for the dog-bone connector and V-shaped steel connector, respectively. The optimal thickness ranges are 6–10 mm for the dog-bone connector and 2–4 mm for the V-shaped steel connector, while the weakened dimension should preferably be selected within 15–20 mm. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
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15 pages, 3688 KiB  
Article
Temperature Field Prediction of Glulam Timber Connections Under Fire Hazard: A DeepONet-Based Approach
by Jing Luo, Guangxin Tian, Chen Xu, Shijie Zhang and Zhen Liu
Fire 2025, 8(7), 280; https://doi.org/10.3390/fire8070280 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 505
Abstract
This paper presents an integrated computational framework for predicting temperature fields in glulam beam–column connections under fire conditions, combining finite element modeling, automated parametric analysis, and deep learning techniques. A high-fidelity heat transfer finite element model was developed, incorporating the anisotropic thermal properties [...] Read more.
This paper presents an integrated computational framework for predicting temperature fields in glulam beam–column connections under fire conditions, combining finite element modeling, automated parametric analysis, and deep learning techniques. A high-fidelity heat transfer finite element model was developed, incorporating the anisotropic thermal properties of wood and temperature-dependent material behavior, validated against experimental data with strong agreement. To enable large-scale parametric studies, an automated Abaqus model modification and data processing system was implemented, improving computational efficiency through the batch processing of geometric and material parameters. The extracted temperature field data was used to train a DeepONet neural network, which achieved accurate temperature predictions (with a L2 relative error of 1.5689% and an R2 score of 0.9991) while operating faster than conventional finite element analysis. This research establishes a complete workflow from fundamental heat transfer analysis to efficient data generation and machine learning prediction, providing structural engineers with practical tools for the performance-based fire safety design of timber connections. The framework’s computational efficiency enables comprehensive parametric studies and design optimizations that were previously impractical, offering significant advancements for structural fire engineering applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Structural Fire Engineering)
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8 pages, 900 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Repercussions on the Shear Force of an Internal Beam–Column Connection from Two Symmetrical Uniformly Distributed Loads at Different Positions on the Beam
by Albena Doicheva
Eng. Proc. 2025, 87(1), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025087085 - 26 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1302
Abstract
The beam–column connection is an important element in frame construction. Despite numerous studies, there is still no uniform procedure for shear force design across countries. We continue to witness serious problems and even collapse of buildings under seismic activity caused by failures in [...] Read more.
The beam–column connection is an important element in frame construction. Despite numerous studies, there is still no uniform procedure for shear force design across countries. We continue to witness serious problems and even collapse of buildings under seismic activity caused by failures in the beam–column connection of the frame. During the last 60 decades, a large number of experimental studies have been carried out on frame assemblies, where various parameters and their compatibility under cyclic activities have been investigated. What remains misunderstood is the magnitude and distribution of the forces passing through the joint and their involvement in the magnitude of the shear force. Here, the creation of a new mathematical model for the beam and column contributes significantly to our understanding of the flow of forces in the frame connection. For this purpose, the full dimensions of the beam and its material properties are taken into account. All investigations were carried out before crack initiation and after crack propagation along the face of the column, where it separates from the beam. In the present work, the beam is subjected to two symmetrical, transverse, uniformly distributed loads. Expressions are derived to determine the magnitudes of the support reactions from the beam, as a function of the height of its lateral edge. The load positions corresponding to the extreme values of the support reactions are determined. Numerical results are presented for the effect over the magnitudes of the support reactions from different strengths of concrete and steel on the beam. The results are compared with those given in the Eurocode for shear force calculation. It is found that the shear force determined by the proposed new model exceeds the force calculated by Eurocode by 4–62.5%, depending on the crack development stage and the beam materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 5th International Electronic Conference on Applied Sciences)
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25 pages, 8853 KiB  
Article
Experimental and Finite Element Study on Wooden Joints Strengthened by Detachable Steel Sleeves
by Jiajun Gao, Jianhua Shao, Yong Wang, Anxiang Feng, Zhanguang Wang, Hongxuan Xu, Yangfa Zhu and Boshi Ma
Buildings 2025, 15(12), 2139; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15122139 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 291
Abstract
We designed detachable steel sleeves to reinforce wooden joints and improve their integrity under earthquake action and investigated their mechanical properties. Monotonic bending tests were performed on a half-tenon pure wooden joint and a joint strengthened by a detachable steel sleeve. More obvious [...] Read more.
We designed detachable steel sleeves to reinforce wooden joints and improve their integrity under earthquake action and investigated their mechanical properties. Monotonic bending tests were performed on a half-tenon pure wooden joint and a joint strengthened by a detachable steel sleeve. More obvious tenon pulling-out failure was observed in the pure wood joint; in comparison, only slight extrusion fracture of wooden beams and extrusion deformation of steel sleeves occurred in the wood joint reinforced by a detachable steel sleeve. Our test results showed that the initial rotational stiffness of the strengthened joint, JG1, was increased by 495.4% compared with that of the unstrengthened joint, JG0. The yield bending moment increased by 425.9%, and the ultimate bending moment increased by 627.5%, which indicated that the mechanical performance was significantly improved when the joint was reinforced by a detachable steel sleeve. Numerical simulations of different components were performed with finite element analysis software to analyze the mechanical performance of the reinforced joint. It was found that the stiffness and ultimate flexural performance of the joint could be increased by setting stiffeners on the steel sleeve and connecting the wooden column with self-tapping screws. The results of the tests were compared with those obtained through finite element analysis, and a high degree of accuracy was achieved, which could provide a theoretical basis for the reinforcement of timber structural buildings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
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24 pages, 5158 KiB  
Article
Seismic Demand Prediction in Laminated Bamboo Frame Structures: A Comparative Study of Intensity Measures for Performance-Based Design
by Yantai Zhang, Jingpu Zhang, Yujie Gu, Jinglong Zhang and Kaiqi Zheng
Buildings 2025, 15(12), 2039; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15122039 - 13 Jun 2025
Viewed by 454
Abstract
Engineered laminated bamboo frame structures have seen notable advancements in China, driven by their potential in sustainable construction. However, accurately predicting their seismic performance remains a pivotal challenge. Structural and non-structural damage caused by earthquakes can severely compromise building operability, lead to substantial [...] Read more.
Engineered laminated bamboo frame structures have seen notable advancements in China, driven by their potential in sustainable construction. However, accurately predicting their seismic performance remains a pivotal challenge. Structural and non-structural damage caused by earthquakes can severely compromise building operability, lead to substantial economic losses, and disrupt safe evacuation processes, collectively exacerbating disaster impacts. To address this, three laminated bamboo frame models (3-, 4-, and 5-story) were developed, integrating energy-dissipating T-shaped steel plate beam–column connections. Two engineering demand parameters—peak inter-story drift ratio (PIDR) and peak floor acceleration (PFA)—were selected to quantify seismic responses under near-field and far-field ground motions. The study systematically evaluates suitable intensity measures for these parameters, emphasizing efficiency and sufficiency criteria. Regarding efficiency, the applicable intensity measures for PFA differ from those for PIDR. The measures for PFA tend to focus more on acceleration amplitude-related measures such as peak ground accelerations (PGA), sustained maximum acceleration (SMA), effective design acceleration (EDA), and A95 (the acceleration at 95% Arias intensity), while the measures for PIDR are primarily based on spectral acceleration-related measures such as Sa(T1) (spectral acceleration at fundamental period), etc. Concerning sufficiency, significant differences exist in the applicable measures for PFA and PIDR, and they are greatly influenced by ground motion characteristics. Full article
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27 pages, 9265 KiB  
Article
Seismic Behavior and Resilience of an Endplate Rigid Connection for Circular Concrete-Filled Steel Tube Columns
by Yu Gao, Peilin Zhu, Junping Liu and Feng Lou
Buildings 2025, 15(12), 2035; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15122035 - 13 Jun 2025
Viewed by 458
Abstract
A novel endplate bolted rigid joint is proposed in this study for connecting circular concrete-filled steel tube (CCFT) columns to wide-flange (WF) steel beams. The seismic performance and potential failure mechanisms of the proposed joint were investigated through quasi-static cyclic tests and finite [...] Read more.
A novel endplate bolted rigid joint is proposed in this study for connecting circular concrete-filled steel tube (CCFT) columns to wide-flange (WF) steel beams. The seismic performance and potential failure mechanisms of the proposed joint were investigated through quasi-static cyclic tests and finite element (FE) simulations. This study aims to address several engineering challenges commonly observed in existing joint configurations, including an irrational force-resisting mechanism, complicated detailing and installation, on-site construction difficulties, constraints on beam size, and limited repairability. By optimizing the force transfer path, the new joint effectively reduces the number of critical tension welds, thereby enhancing the ductility and reliability. The experimental results indicate that the joint exhibits adequate flexural strength, stiffness, and ductility, with stable moment–rotation hysteresis loops under cyclic loading. Moreover, full restoration of the joint can be achieved by replacing only the steel beam and endplate, facilitating post-earthquake repair. FE analysis reveals that, under the ultimate bending moment at the beam end, multiple through cracks develop in the high-strength grout—which serves as a key load-transferring component—and significant debonding occurs between the grout and the surrounding steel members. However, due to confinement from adjacent components, these internal cracks do not compromise the overall strength and stiffness of the joint. This research provides an efficient and practical connection solution, along with valuable experimental insights, for the application of CCFT columns in moment-resisting frames located in high seismic zones. Full article
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19 pages, 6291 KiB  
Article
Quantitative Assessment of Bolt Looseness in Beam–Column Joints Using SH-Typed Guided Waves and Deep Neural Network
by Ru Zhang, Xiaodong Sui, Yuanfeng Duan, Yaozhi Luo, Yi Fang and Rui Miao
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(12), 6425; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15126425 - 7 Jun 2025
Viewed by 413
Abstract
Bolt connections are the primary component of beam–column joints, which frequently become loose during their service life due to environmental factors. Assessing the tightness of bolts is essential for maintaining structural integrity and safety. Although the guided wave method has been proven effective [...] Read more.
Bolt connections are the primary component of beam–column joints, which frequently become loose during their service life due to environmental factors. Assessing the tightness of bolts is essential for maintaining structural integrity and safety. Although the guided wave method has been proven effective for detecting bolt looseness, the severe dispersion properties and complex structure of beam–column joints pose difficulties for the quantitative evaluation of bolt looseness. Therefore, a deep neural network model integrating a convolutional neural network (CNN), long short-term memory (LSTM), and multi-head self-attention mechanism (MHSA) is introduced to identify the degree of looseness in multiple bolts using SH-typed guided waves. The dispersion properties of the I-shaped steel beam were analyzed using the semi-analytical finite element method, and a mode weight coefficient was presented to clarify the mode distribution under different types of external loads. Two pairs of transducers arranged on the same side of the bolt-connected region were utilized to obtain the directly incoming and end-reflected wave packets from four wave propagation paths. The received signals were converted into time–frequency spectra, and the effective components were extracted to form the input pattern for the neural network. Numerical simulations were performed on a beam–column joint with eight bolts, and the number of training samples was increased using data augmentation techniques. The results indicate that the CNN-LSTM-MHSA model can accurately estimate the bolt looseness conditions better than other methods. Noise injection testing was also conducted to investigate the effect of measurement noise. Full article
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30 pages, 7872 KiB  
Article
Vibration Response Characteristics of Prefabricated Frame Structures Around the Subway
by Zhenyu Huang and Youfa Yang
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(12), 6419; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15126419 - 7 Jun 2025
Viewed by 362
Abstract
Prefabricated structures have gained wider application. However, there is little research on the vibration response of prefabricated frame structures in subway environments. Prolonged metro-induced vibrations may severely degrade human comfort levels for nearby residents, interfere with the operation of precision instruments, and accelerate [...] Read more.
Prefabricated structures have gained wider application. However, there is little research on the vibration response of prefabricated frame structures in subway environments. Prolonged metro-induced vibrations may severely degrade human comfort levels for nearby residents, interfere with the operation of precision instruments, and accelerate structural fatigue damage. Consequently, it is imperative to investigate the vibration response patterns of prefabricated frame structures under metro operational conditions. Structural vibration responses demonstrated greater sensitivity to column sections and slab thickness than beam dimensions when using semirigid connections, though marginal effects emerged with parameter increases. Enhanced vibration thresholds require supplementary vibration reduction measures. Increasing total spans proved more effective in vibration reduction than adding stories, with vibration transmission exhibiting notable edge effects. Related research can provide reference for the structural design of prefabricated frame structures around the subway. Full article
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16 pages, 5084 KiB  
Article
Novel Ductile Moment-Resisting Frame Compound of Steel Gusset Plate for Beam-to-Column Connections and I-Shaped FRP Profile Sections
by Ali Ghamari, Chanachai Thongchom, Adamantis G. Zapris and Violetta K. Kytinou
J. Compos. Sci. 2025, 9(6), 280; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcs9060280 - 30 May 2025
Viewed by 510
Abstract
Moment-resisting frames (MRFs) are characterized by high energy dissipation capacity relying on plastic hinge formation at the two ends of beams. Despite their numerous advantages, Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) profile sections used in MRF systems suffer from low ductility, which remains a dilemma. FRP [...] Read more.
Moment-resisting frames (MRFs) are characterized by high energy dissipation capacity relying on plastic hinge formation at the two ends of beams. Despite their numerous advantages, Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) profile sections used in MRF systems suffer from low ductility, which remains a dilemma. FRP profiles have emerged as a novel and valuable material with significant advancement in structural engineering. In this paper, an MRF system composed of novel gusset plate steel connections (to provide ductility) and FRP profile sections for beams and columns is proposed and investigated numerically and parametrically. The results indicate that up to a rotation of 0.04 rad, the proposed gusset plate dissipates energy, whereas the beam and columns remain essentially elastic. Accordingly, with an increase in the ratio of vertical length to thickness of the gusset plate, energy dissipation is reduced. Through an increase in the ratio of horizontal length to thickness of the gusset plate from 63.5 to 127 and 254, the ultimate strength of the connection is reduced by 4% to 10% and 3% to 7%, respectively. It is suggested that gusset plate thickness be selected in such a way that its slenderness is not less than 47. Subsequently, the required equation is proposed to achieve the optimum performance of the system. Full article
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36 pages, 4413 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Seismic Repairability of Precast RC Frames Through an Innovative Replaceable Plastic Hinge Technology
by Resat Oyguc and Ali Berk Bozan
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 5629; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15105629 - 18 May 2025
Viewed by 541
Abstract
The introduction of a novel replaceable plastic hinge technology aims to enhance the performance of precast reinforced concrete (PRC) frames, particularly in seismically vulnerable areas where substandard structural systems are prevalent. This artificially controllable plastic hinge (ACPH) mechanism effectively localizes inelastic deformations to [...] Read more.
The introduction of a novel replaceable plastic hinge technology aims to enhance the performance of precast reinforced concrete (PRC) frames, particularly in seismically vulnerable areas where substandard structural systems are prevalent. This artificially controllable plastic hinge (ACPH) mechanism effectively localizes inelastic deformations to a detachable steel subassembly, thereby maintaining the integrity of the primary structural components. A numerical analysis was carried out on four distinct PRC frame configurations that utilized concrete and steel of inferior quality relative to contemporary standards. The frames underwent testing under a segment of the Mw 7.7 Kahramanmaraş ground motion, revealing that connections utilizing the ACPH not only reduce peak base shear but also mitigate cracking at beam–column interfaces, directing plastic strains towards replaceable fuse elements. The implementation of the ACPH also facilitates extended structural periods and localized plastic hinging, which serves to limit damage to essential members while expediting post-earthquake repairs. Comparative validation through prior subassembly tests confirms that this hinge exhibits a strong hysteretic response and ductile performance, surpassing traditional wet-joint connections in the context of substandard PRC frames. Overall, these results underscore the potential of standardized hinge modules in enhancing seismic resilience and supporting swift, economical rehabilitation of critical infrastructure. Thus, this proposed technology effectively tackles persistent issues related to low-strength materials in precast structures, presenting a practical approach to improving earthquake resilience and minimizing repair time and costs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Structural Analysis and Seismic Resilience in Civil Engineering)
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32 pages, 17340 KiB  
Article
Elastic Structural Assessment of Clamp-Based Steel Beam-to-Column Connections for Reusable Steel Systems
by Fernando Nunes Cavalheiro, Manuel Cabaleiro, Borja Conde and Yago Cruz
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 5398; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15105398 - 12 May 2025
Viewed by 461
Abstract
The increasing demand for modular and reusable steel structures has driven the development of demountable connections that preserve the integrity of structural components. This study investigated the structural performance of beam-to-column connections using clamp-based fastening systems, operating strictly within the elastic regime and [...] Read more.
The increasing demand for modular and reusable steel structures has driven the development of demountable connections that preserve the integrity of structural components. This study investigated the structural performance of beam-to-column connections using clamp-based fastening systems, operating strictly within the elastic regime and targeting applications in temporary systems and industrial platforms. Two triangular steel frame configurations (180 mm and 260 mm), differing in clamp capacity and hole arrangement, were experimentally tested and numerically modeled to assess their influence on load-bearing capacity, displacements, and stress distribution. Experimental tests were conducted with controlled bolt pretension and progressive vertical loading, continuously monitoring displacements and applied forces. The finite element model (FEM), validated with high correlation (>97%) to the experimental data, confirmed that all configurations remained within the elastic domain. Results showed that increasing the number of clamps significantly enhanced both stiffness and load capacity, with gains of up to 27.3% depending on the configuration, while reductions exhibited a nonlinear performance loss. Stress concentrations were observed in clamp contact regions without plasticization. Overall, clamp-based connections demonstrated efficient structural performance and alignment with design-for-deconstruction and circular economy principles, proving to be technically feasible for systems requiring reusability and adaptability. Full article
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35 pages, 18222 KiB  
Article
Impact of Inter-Modular Connections on Progressive Compressive Behavior of Prefabricated Column-Supported Volumetric Modular Steel Frames
by Kejia Yang, Kashan Khan, Yukun Yang, Lu Jiang and Zhihua Chen
Crystals 2025, 15(5), 413; https://doi.org/10.3390/cryst15050413 - 28 Apr 2025
Viewed by 569
Abstract
This study investigates the progressive compressive behavior of modular interior frames with rotary-type module-to-module inter-modular (M2M) connections under sequential column failure. A novel two-stage testing protocol was applied, compressing the left upper column to failure, followed by the right, to simulate realistic loading [...] Read more.
This study investigates the progressive compressive behavior of modular interior frames with rotary-type module-to-module inter-modular (M2M) connections under sequential column failure. A novel two-stage testing protocol was applied, compressing the left upper column to failure, followed by the right, to simulate realistic loading progression in prefabricated column-supported volumetric modular steel structures. Detailed refined finite-element models (FEMs) were developed and validated against experimental results, accurately capturing local and global responses with an average prediction error of 2–10% for strength and stiffness. An extensive parametric study involving varying frame configurations evaluated the influence of frame member geometric properties, connection details, and column/beam gap interaction on progressive collapse behavior. The results demonstrated that upper columns govern failure through elastic–plastic buckling near M2M joints while other members/connections remain elastic/unyielded. Increasing column cross section and thickness significantly enhanced strength and stiffness, while longer columns and prior damage reduced capacity, particularly during right-column loading. Conventional steel design codes overestimated column strength, with mean Pu,FEM/Pu,code ratios below unity and high scatter (Coefficient of variation ~0.25–0.27), highlighting the inadequacy of isolated member-based design equations for modular assemblies. The findings emphasize the need for frame-based stability approaches that account for M2M joint semi-rigidity, sway sensitivity, and sequential failure effects to ensure the reliable design of modular steel frames under progressive compressive loads. Full article
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28 pages, 9362 KiB  
Article
Seismic Performance of Prestressed Prefabricated Concrete Frames with Mechanical Connection Steel Bars
by Yi Wang, Chennan Liu, Chuanzhi Sun, Ashraf Ashour, Shan Yao, Laiyong Luo and Wenjie Ge
Buildings 2025, 15(9), 1432; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15091432 - 24 Apr 2025
Viewed by 451
Abstract
Seismic resilience is a critical concern in the development of prefabricated concrete structures. This study investigates the seismic performance of prestressed prefabricated concrete frames with mechanically connected steel bars through both experiment and finite element simulations using ABAQUS. The research aimed to evaluate [...] Read more.
Seismic resilience is a critical concern in the development of prefabricated concrete structures. This study investigates the seismic performance of prestressed prefabricated concrete frames with mechanically connected steel bars through both experiment and finite element simulations using ABAQUS. The research aimed to evaluate the influence of prestressed and mechanical connections on structural stiffness, energy dissipation and failure mechanisms, and a restoring force model was developed based on the experimental and numerical results to provide a theoretical basis for seismic design. The parametric analysis based on the verified numerical model shows that the pretension can significantly enhance the bearing capacity, stiffness and deformation recovery ability of the prefabricated concrete frames. The peak load increased by 30.8%, the initial stiffness improved by 17.4%, the ductility coefficient reached 2.82, the residual deformation rate reduced by 40.7%, the emergence and development of cracks delayed, and the crack width reduced. Improving the effective prestress in a certain range can improve the bearing capacity and initial stiffness of the frame. Increasing the strength of concrete and the ratio of the longitudinal reinforcement of beam and column can effectively enhance the bearing capacity of the frame. With the increase of axial compression ratio in a certain range, the bearing capacity and initial stiffness of the frame increase significantly, but the ductility decreases. Based on the hysteresis curve and skeleton curve tested, the skeleton curve model and stiffness degradation law of the prestressed prefabricated concrete frames reinforced with mechanical connection steel bars were fitted, and the restoring force model was established. The predicted value was in good agreement with the experimental value, illustrating the validity of the model developed. These results offer valuable insights for optimizing the seismic design of prefabricated concrete frames, ensuring a balance between strength, stiffness, and ductility in earthquake-resistant structures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
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