City Research Online

Abstract

This study provides an extensive analysis of Reduced Web Section (RWS) connections as a seismic retrofit strategy aimed at enhancing structural safety and sustainability in steel structures. RWS connections, which introduce perforations in the web of steel beams, offer a sustainable alternative to traditional Reduced Beam Section (RBS) connections by preserving flange integrity, minimising out-of-plane instability and slab connectivity. The research utilises 91 Finite Element Models validated against experimental data to assess the impact of web opening size and position on the cyclic performance of RWS connections subjected to the AISC 341 loading protocol. The findings demonstrate that with optimal design, RWS connections can achieve desirable failure modes, meeting AISC criteria for special moment frames with minimal strength degradation. The results show that specimens achieved ultimate drift demands over 4%, meeting AISC criteria for special moment frames with less than 20% strength degradation. This study highlights the potential of RWS connections, offering practical recommendations for their application in sustainable seismic retrofitting, structural rehabilitation, and improved structural safety.

Publication Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Paper)
Subjects:	T Technology > TA Engineering (General). Civil engineering (General) T Technology > TH Building construction
Departments:	School of Science & Technology School of Science & Technology > Engineering
SWORD Depositor:	Symplectic Administrator

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