RESISTANCE OF METAL-PLATE-CONNECTED TRUSS JOINTS TO DYNAMIC LOADING

The behavior of metal-plate-connected (MPC)joints has been thoroughly researched under various static loading scenarios; however, little res earch has been performed on MPC joints subjected to dynamic loading. T his research investigates the effects of dynamic loading on MPC joints . This investigation follows procedures similar to those used for stud ies of nailed connections due to the similarities of the two types of connections. Six configurations of MPC truss joints were tested under static and dynamic loading. Static tests were performed to obtain maxi mum static strength and static stiffness values for the different conf igurations. Each configuration was then subjected to dynamic loading a nd then statically loaded to failure. An accepted model of the load-sl ip behavior of MPC joints was fit to the data acquired from static tes ts before and after dynamic loading. The residual effects of the appli ed dynamic loading on the tested MPC joints were quite minimal. The te sted MPC joints developed similar static load properties before and af ter dynamic loading. While the dynamically loaded connections generall y developed less initial static stiffness than their static-load-only counterparts, they maintained most of their static load resistance. Th is resistance to residual effects of dynamic loading makes these MPC j oints suitable for use in structures situated in high seismic or wind zones.