Performance of reusable column base connections under lateral cyclic and vertical loading
File(s)
Accepted version
Author(s)
Ma, Qi
Chan, Tak-Ming
Elghazouli, Ahmed Y
Type
Journal Article
Abstract
This paper investigates the performance of a reusable rocking column base connection configuration under combined lateral cyclic deformations and vertical gravity loading, through experimental, numerical, and analytical assessments. After describing the details of the connection arrangement, a simplified analytical model is proposed to represent its lateral load versus displacement response which incorporates four distinct rocking stages. Numerical finite element models are also constructed to simulate the behaviour of the connection. The analytical and numerical models are validated through an experimental assessment involving three groups of specimens with different geometric properties and vertical loading. The numerical approach is then used to carry out a parametric study covering a wider range of vertical loading conditions in order to quantify its influence on the connection response. It is shown that whilst the increase in vertical loading can enhance the resistance of the connection, it can have detrimental effects on the ductility and reusability of the structure. Based on the analytical model and numerical analysis, design considerations and recommendations are discussed. Overall, the findings illustrate the suitability of the proposed analytical approach and highlight the merits and limitations of the proposed reusable self-centring connection.
Date Issued
2026-01-01
Date Acceptance
2025-09-17
Citation
Journal of Constructional Steel Research, 2026, 236 (Part A)
ISSN
0143-974X
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Journal / Book Title
Journal of Constructional Steel Research
Volume
236
Issue
Part A
Copyright Statement
Copyright © 2025 Elsevier Ltd. This is the author’s accepted manuscript made available under a CC-BY licence in accordance with Imperial’s Research Publications Open Access policy (www.imperial.ac.uk/oa-policy)
License URL
Publication Status
Published
Article Number
109995
Date Publish Online
2025-10-07