On the Limit Behaviour of Moment Resisting Connections Under Uncertainties

Abstract Moment resisting connections are mainly designed to transfer bending moments and shear forces. Generally speaking, the design strength of a moment connection can be classified as full-strength (moment capacity equal or greater than that connected member) partial-strength (the less member). Similar remarks made regarding stiffness defining rigid semi-rigid if compared member. In past, have been widely adopted especially in frames their structural performance relied on proper behaviour welding. However, research following 1994 Northridge 1995 Kobe earthquakes demonstrated lower expected welded connections, stimulating onset development pre-qualified seismic areas. Among these most studied ones those belonging Reduced Beam Section (RBS) typology, being so-called “dogbone” adopted. The dogbone presents flexural lesser original Recently, authors proposed special device suitably realize an innovative for steel beam elements RBS typology. Such device, called Limited Resistance Plastic Device ( LRPD ), is constituted by three different portions: central one devoted plastic deformations geometrical dimensions reduced with respect member; external recover beam-device system member present dimensions. This latter remark allows affirm that, from connectivity point view, at column-beam interface, Another fundamental intrinsically characterized uncertainties related either material ones. Usually, effect covered use safety coefficients analyses performed referring only nominal values mechanical characteristics. order perform more complete interpretation non-deterministic analysis approach used. Aim paper characterization referenced (“dogbone” ) taking into account main performing Monte Carlo simulations determining relevant M-N domains. Starting described characterization, commercial profiles will considered build series domains useful quantify level range usability two approaches. Finally, implemented applications lead demonstrate reliability classical dogbone.