Cyclic behavior of steel moment connections with built-up columns in weak direction

In many countries, due to fabrication restrictions in producing large hollow tubular rolled sections, use of built-up sections is a common practice. One of those built-up sections being a suitable choice as column in two directional steel moment frames is the double-I that attain high moment of inertia about their two main axes. In this study, using a through-plate concept, a new detailing and corresponding design procedure proposed for moment connections with double-I built-up columns in weak axis direction. A series of finite element analyses performed in order to envisage the connection behavior and its load transfer mechanism. To ensure the accuracy of the results, a computer model similar to the experimental prototype assembled and analyzed via finite element method. The numerical results illustrate reasonable agreement with the experimental results. In addition, the influence of the pertinent parameters on the proposed connection such as thickness and height of the column reinforcing plate, and thickness and height of the trough plate examined. The outcome of this research reveals that the proposed connection satisfies the rigidity, strength and ductility criteria according to AISC seismic provisions for special moment frame connections [Display omitted] •Proposing a new detailing for moment connections with double-I built-up columns in weak axis direction.•Using through-plate idea, a detailing similar to the through-plate connection in the box column connection is proposed.•Simulation of a series of the connection made by conducting the finite element analyses of the proposed connections.•Influence of the essential parameters on the proposed connection is identified.•The connection satisfies all requirements as a moment connection in the special moment frames standardized by the AISC.