预制框架结构纵筋机械连接接头单调和循环性能试验研究-experimental study on monotonic and cyclic performance of longitudinal reinforcement mechanical joint of prefabricated frame structure.docxVIP

AbstractThis study presents results from the static and cyclic performance of a bar-splice assembly. Construction errors and geometric imperfections in the materials used for the civil engineering works are a continuing challenge that Engineers face on a daily basis. Due to economic aspects and deadlines, they are forced to make ad-hoc decisions to repair the imperfection and/or error. An investigation is made into the performance of two connectors meant to join two-16-mm and two-18-mm rebar to transfer forces across the splice in the safest way possible. A number of imperfections/errors are envisaged namely: bent bar in the grouted end (MT16B/MT18B); and an eccentricity introduced in the grouted end of the connector (MT16E/MT18E). In addition, a headed rebar in the grouted end is proposed because it not only averts eccentricity but it presumably distributes forces to the grout in a more effective manner. Hence, an assessment is made for this kind of set-up (MT16HR/18HR). Furthermore, a typical bar-splice assembly is used as a control for this study. The acronym MT stands for monotonic tension for the static aspects; CE stands for cyclic elastic and CP stands for cyclic plastic which measure the cyclic performance. For a period of 50-years, precast systems have been in use, to-date, no empirical or analytical approach exists for assessing strength of bar-splice assemblies in codes of practice. The need for research in this direction is long overdue.A total of 85 specimens were tested in an experiment with an MTS equipment of capacity 2500kN. The loading rates were consistent with existing codes of Practice. The MTS was chosen for the experiment because of the ease with which the cyclic loading would be applied. A test matrix was designed with four tests including: monotonic tension test; two-cyclic elastic tests; and cyclic plastic test. Each category of test comprised of four differently connected specimens (MT16/ MT18; MT16B/MT18B; MT16E/MT18E; and MT16HR/MT18HR).