Experimental and analytical investigations on reusable column base connection with pinned energy dissipators

This research paper introduces a novel, yet simple, column base connection that is reusable for moment resisting frames (MRFs). The performance of this connection was evaluated through a comprehensive experimental investigation. The proposed design incorporates a pinned energy dissipator (ED) that effectively absorbs seismic energy. Moreover, the connection utilises the weight of the column itself to provide a recentring force. Unlike existing self-centring column base connections, the ED in this innovative design is equipped with pins to prevent resistance to recentring caused by inelastic deformation after earthquakes. This unique feature ensures that the connection possesses self-centring capability, energy dissipation ability, and reusability. The analytical simplified models developed in this study effectively illustrate the monotonic and cyclic behaviours of the proposed connection. To validate the design concepts and simplified models, tests were conducted on specimens of the ED and the complete column base connection.