Experimental study on the seismic behavior of a novel type of precast column-steel beam connection with grouted corrugated metallic duct

Considering the complicated joint details and installation difficulties of beam-column joints, a novel type of precast joint that utilizes grouted corrugated metallic ducts was proposed. Four full-scale specimens were prepared and subjected to the low cyclic loading test, including two precast specimens (interior beam-column joint and exterior beam-column joint) and two cast-in-place specimens for comparison. The seismic behavior of the joint was evaluated based on failure modes, hysteretic behaviors, ductility, bearing capacity, and energy dissipation. From the test results, all specimens experienced bending failures at the beam end, which kept the plastic hinge away from the joint core area. The precast assembly joints showed excellent seismic behavior, especially in terms of the bearing capacity, ductility, and energy dissipation capacity, which are better than the cast-in-place ones. The bearing capacity measured for each specimen was greater than the design standard, indicating that the joints are reasonably designed, and the members are safe and reliable. Parametric analysis was also conducted by finite element modeling and design advice was given accordingly.