A phenomenological component-based model to simulate seismic behavior of bolted extended end-plate connections

• A phenomenological model is developed for end plate moment connections.
• The component model was validated for connections subjected to cyclic loading.
• The model, based on geometric and material properties, does not require calibration.
• The approach is validated against a set of eight full-scale experiments.
• Slip of the end plate has significant effect on the behavior of weak connections.

In order to investigate seismic behavior of bolted extended end-plate connections, a phenomenological component-based model with several separated springs is presented where the constitutive relationships for individual components are determined using material and geometric properties. Analytical results using the developed model were compared with experimental data from full-scale moment connection tests including global load versus displacement and local response of beam hinge, panel zone and other components. The effectiveness of the model was demonstrated by these comparisons. The model is then leveraged to study the influence of design decisions such as weak columns and bolt pretension. The analytical results indicate that bolt pretension and related connection slip can significantly affect the seismic behavior of the end-plate and column flange and thus their inclusion in the proposed model is validated.