Investigation of linear and nonlinear performance of the simpson strong-tie connection

After the Northridge earthquake, it was determined that the beam-to-column connections in the moment frames were weak and needed to be revised. In recent years, the use of bolted connections have expanded and replaced almost welded connections. The US Code of Conduct (AISC358-16) introduced a new connection called the Simpson Connection, which is a semi-rigid connection with the idea of ​​damage control. Progressive connection is a new and smart type of screw connection that includes a weakened plate, end plate, corner as well as a buckle plate. The main purpose of this study is to investigate the linear and nonlinear behavior of Simpson connectivity using ABAQUS software. The baseline sample was selected from the model outlined in US Code (AISC358-16). To gain a better understanding of the new Simpson junction model, 14 numerical specimens were modeled and the strengths and weaknesses of the models including ductility, stiffness, strength, and energy absorption of the models were compared. In this connection, the geometry of weakened plate and its performance is important. In so doing, variables such as mid-length, mid-width, initial length, as well as stiffeners were evaluated in the initial length of the weakened plate. The model with a thickness of 30 mm thicker than the other models with respect to the mentioned characteristics, showed acceptable results including anchor tolerance of 1010 kN.m and energy absorption of 55.53 kN/mm which showed that its use is suitable for areas with high seismicity.