Experimental validation of a novel curved steel damper for steel frames with flexible beam-column joints

In this study, results of an experimental program are presented to validate the performance of a novel energy dissipation device (EDD) designed for use in moment-resisting steel frame structures with flexible beam-column connections. The EDD, composed of a curved steel plate, stiffeners, and flanges on both ends, was tested in laboratory conditions using a displacement control quasi-static loading protocol. Three half-scale steel frames were used, one serving as a control and the other two incorporating the device in both column-beam joints. The device was fabricated using two different materials, mild steel, and stainless steel, and the results were compared. The results of the experimental program revealed that the frames equipped with the energy dissipation device performed significantly better than the control frame. This was observed qualitatively, in terms of the amount of damage sustained by the frames, and quantitatively, through measurements of the frames' capacity and displacement ductility. Frames that were equipped with dampers showed an approximately 1.5-fold increase in displacement ductility and an 84–113% increase in cumulative energy dissipation compared to the control frame. Overall, this research highlights the potential of this novel energy dissipation device to enhance the seismic performance of moment-resistance steel frame structures.