CYCLIC LOADING TEST OF CLAMPED SPLIT POCKET MECHANISM AS A BEAM–COLUMN JOINT SYSTEM

This study evaluated the seismic performance of a clamped split pocket mechanism (CSPM) as a beam-column joint system for a prefabricated instant steel house. The CSPM utilizes a plug-and-play connection system with preloaded bolts, eliminating the need for on-site welding during assembly. Two full-scale CSPM specimens were examined for their stiffness, hysteretic behavior, skeleton curves, ductility, and failure modes using cyclic loading tests. The results indicated that the CSPM specimens exhibited a hysteretic response shape that appeared as a reverse S-shaped curve with pinching in the middle. Plastic deformation was formed through inelastic local buckling in the split pocket, which was crucial in absorbing seismic energy, effectively preventing brittle failure, and thereby reducing damage to the joint system. According to the criteria of AISC 341-16, the CSPM specimens were classified as partially restrained (PR) and ordinary moment frames (OMF) as their moment capacity did not surpass 0.8Mmax at a rotation angle of 0.02 rad despite exhibiting adequate and stable lateral resistance in positive and negative loading directions up to 0.04 rad. This objective can be achieved with the condition that the beams and columns remain undamaged. Finally, the CSPM proved to be a reliable prefabricated beam-column joint system for a one-story instant steel house. © Int. J. of GEOMATE All rights reserved, including making copies, unless permission is obtained from the copyright proprietors