Experimental study on seismic performance of two-segment replaceable link with separated splicing plates.

Traditional I-beam sections connected with end plates face challenges related to end bolts and excessive residual deformation. In response to these challenges, this study introduces an innovative concept: two-segment replaceable links with separated splicing plates. Two variations of replaceable links have been designed - one with separated splicing plates featuring standard bolt holes, and another with short slotted bolt holes. Cyclic loading tests has been conducted to study their seismic performance. The test results reveal that the failure modes of the links include flange buckling and tearing at the welds connecting the flange and end plate. The hysteresis curves of the specimens are complete and stable. The average overstrength coefficient of the links is 1.75, meeting the specified limit requirement for an overstrength coefficient greater than 1.5 for the link. The ultimate plastic rotation reaches up to 0.19 rad. Notably, specimens with short slotted bolt holes exhibit a relatively significant energy dissipation ratio due to bolts slip during test and they demonstrate optimal replaceability in terms of minimized replacement time and residual shear rotation. Furthermore, the two-stage design method for high-strength bolts in splicing plate is proposed considering bolts slip. • To evaluate the seismic performance of the two-segment replaceable link with separated splicing plates. • The hysteresis curves of the replaceable link are full and the specimens have a strong plastic deformation capacity. • The experimental study showed that the overstrength coefficient (Ω) for the replaceable link ranged from 1.52 to 2.00. • The bolts slip in the splicing plate dissipate more energy due to the long circle holes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]