Seismic Performance Evaluation of a Large-Scale Composite MRF Using Pseudodynamic Testing

The seismic performance of a composite moment resisting frame (MRF) comprised of concrete filled tube (CFT) columns and wide flange beams was investigated experimentally. The four-story composite MRF test structure was designed using performance-based design concepts. The performance objectives include achieving: (1) the operational performance level under the frequent occurrence earthquake; (2) the life safety performance level under the design basis earthquake; and (3) the collapse prevention performance level under the maximum considered earthquake. The hybrid pseudodynamic test method was used to subject the test structure to these various seismic input levels. P-Δ effects associated with the gravity frames in the prototype building were included analytically in the tests. Results from the tests indicated that the structural performance under the simulated seismic loading was consistent with the expected performance for all three earthquake levels, indicating that effective seismic performance of composite MRFs with CFT columns can be achieved.