Studies into a high performance composite connection for high-rise buildings

This paper presents experimental and numerical studies into the structural behavior of a high performance corbel type composite connection adopted in Raffles City of Hangzhou, China. Physical tests under both monotonic and quasi-static cyclic loads were conducted to investigate the load carrying capacities and deformation characteristics of this new type of composite connection. A variety of structural responses are examined in detail, including load-deformation characteristics, the development of sectional direct and shear strains, and the history of cumulative plastic deformation and energy. A three-dimensional finite element model built up with solid elements was also proposed for the verification against test results. The studies demonstrate the high rigidity, strength and rotation capacities of the corbel type composite connections, and give detailed structural understanding for engineering design and practice. Structural engineers are encouraged to adopt the proposed corbel type composite connections in mega high-rise buildings to achieve an economical and buildable and architectural friendly engineering solution.