An Energy Dissipating Seismic Connector for Precast Concrete Shear Walls

In this study, several steel connector shapes were analytically evaluated as potential new seismic energy dissipating devices between vertical precast concrete shear wall panels. Based on the results of analytical and experimental studies, a multiple yield zone (MYZ) connector is proposed due to its improved performance (in energy dissipation) when compared to the conventional U-shaped flexure plate (UFP) device. Unlike the UFP, the MYZ connector provides stiffness and energy dissipation in both horizontal and vertical directions. The response of a shear wall building system utilizing the MYZ or UFP connectors was evaluated using a simplified frame model. The MYZ connector performed better than the UFP alternate both in terms of energy dissipation in the device and with respect to improved structure response. The use of multiple (distributed) yield zones through circular cut-outs is key in the performance enhancement observed with the MYZ connector.

Automated summary

In this study, the potential of several steel connector shapes as seismic energy dissipating devices between vertical precast concrete shear wall panels was evaluated. The multiple yield zone (MYZ) connector was proposed based on its improved performance in energy dissipation compared to the conventional U-shaped flexure plate (UFP) device. The MYZ connector provides stiffness and energy dissipation in both horizontal and vertical directions, and its use resulted in better energy dissipation and structure response compared to the UFP alternate. The presence of multiple yield zones through circular cut-outs is crucial for the performance enhancement observed with the MYZ connector.