Evaluación del desempeño sísmico de conexiones de acero precalificadas (RBS, Conexión END-PLATE 4E y WUF-W) en un edificio de mediana altura de uso residencial en la ciudad de Loja

Abstract

This Integrated Project analyzes the seismic behavior of special moment frames in a mid-rise steel residential building, evaluating the influence of the prequalified RBS, END-PLATE 4E, and WUF-W connections. The objective is to characterize the regulatory requirements established in AISC 341, AISC 358, and NEC-SE-2015, verify the failure mechanism, and determine the demand-capacity relationship of the structural system. It is hypothesized that, by complying with the regulatory provisions, the three connection types exhibit adequate ductile behavior and guarantee satisfactory seismic performance. The justification for the study lies in the need to optimize seismic-resistant design in steel buildings located in areas of intermediate seismic hazard. The project was developed using three-dimensional modeling of the building in a finite element program. ASTM A36 steel profiles were used, gravitational and lateral loads were applied according to NEC-SE-2015, and static, dynamic, and pushover analyses were performed. Drift, base shear, eccentricity control, and plastic hinge formation were verified, considering the acceptance criteria established by current regulations. The results demonstrated that the three connections met the drift limits (less than 2%) and exhibited the weak beam-strong column mechanism. It is concluded that the RBS, END-PLATE 4E, and WUF-W connections guarantee overall ductility and adequate seismic performance when designed according to regulations, allowing their classification as SMF systems. Keywords: Integrated Project, Prequalified Connections, Pushover Analysis, Seismic Design, Steel Structures.