Experimental Behavior and Mechanical Modeling of Dissipative T-Stub Connections

This work aims to enhance the energy-dissipation capacity of classical rectangular T-stubs by proposing an hourglass shape for the T-stub flange according to the approach usually adopted for added damping and stiffness (ADAS) devices. A new type of axial damper is developed. First, a mechanical model of the device is set up and a finite-element model is carried out in ABAQUS code. The accuracy of both models is verified through comparison with experimental results. Next, on the basis of cyclic tests, the improvement of the energy-dissipation capacity of classical T-stubs provided by the proposed approach is quantified, and the low-cycle fatigue curves are determined with reference to the case of both T-stubs on rigid support and of coupled T-stubs. The results of the work also represent a useful tool for designing a dissipative double split tee connection.