Experimental investigation of link-to-column connections in eccentrically braced frames

The design of link-to-column connections in seismic-resistant eccentrically braced frames remains a largely unresolved problem. In order to address this problem, twenty-four large-scale specimens were tested under cyclic loading. The test parameters included the connection detail, link length, link section, and cyclic loading protocol. The test results suggest that link-to-column connections are susceptible to fracture at the link flange welds, regardless of the link length. A large number of specimens failed prematurely, before meeting the plastic link rotation requirement in US code provisions. However, two promising link-to-column connection details were developed as an outcome of this research. The new connection details include a detail using all-around fillet welds between the link and the column flange, and a reinforced connection detail that welds a pair of stiffeners in the first link web panel next to the column, parallel to the link web. Test specimens using either of these two details were able to exceed the plastic link rotation requirement.