Behavior of connections between square CFST columns and H-section steel beams

Three large-scale connections between square concrete-filled steel tubular (CFST) columns and H-section steel beams were tested. The specimens include one connection with continuous flange under static load and two connections with continuous flange and vertical anchor respectively under seismic loads. The static properties of strength and ductility are calculated for static connection based on load-displacement curves, while the seismic properties of strength, ductility, stiffness degradation and energy dissipation are calculated for seismic connections based on hysteretic load-displacement curves. Combining the mechanical properties, experimental phenomena and strain development, beam hinge failure mode can be identified for all specimens. The measured beam strengths of specimens are compared with those predicted by the current AISC-360, EC4 and GB50017-2003 codes. The study results show that all connections are reliable. A finite element model (FEM), developed and verified with the experimental results, is used to perform parametric analysis. Furthermore, design suggestions are presented.