| The semi-rigid connection considered in this thesis is a column tree connection, an innovative departure from steel moment connections used in modern building construction. There were four objectives of this thesis: experimentally measure the moment rotation relationship of a full scale weak axis specimen, develop modeling input parameters, compare performance of semi-rigid versus simple frames using a standardized model, and quantify global and local performance of the connection using a series of ground motions.; Specimen testing showed acceptable rotation capacity. However, the specimen fractured at the beam column weld connection due to poor weld penetration. Modeling input parameters were derived from a comparable strong axis test results and a simple bilinear curve was developed. Overall performance of the semi-rigid connection, based on analytical modeling, showed that the column tree connection forced inelastic behavior away from the column face. Analytical modeling using DRAIN 2DX software showed acceptable global and local performance. |
