Connections between precast elements - Failure within connection region

This paper presents the test results of three moment-resisting connections between precast beam-column elements designed for regions of moderate to high seismicity. The specimens are subjected to cyclic lateral load reversals that are progressively amplified until the structures are taken to inter-story drifts (ratio of lateral story displacement to story height) exceeding 4%. Two of the test specimens represent exterior connections (BME, BMF), and the third represents an interior connection (BMG). The connections include: BME—bolted, BMF—threaded rebar with ordinary couplers, and BMG—threaded rebar with tapered-threaded couplers. The plastic hinge is forced to develop within the connection region in all three specimens. The specimens exibit ductility and energy dissipation characteristics similar to those of ordinary reinforced concrete elements, as the connection regions are designed to emulate ordinary reinforced concrete in a precast system. The threaded rebar connections with tapered-threaded splices represent the most favorable solution in terms of performance, fabrication, and economy.