Investigating of the effect of composite and welded connections on the cyclic behavior of steel bridges

Connections play a significant role on the seismic performance of structures subjected to gravity and lateral loads. One of the most important strategies for plastic hinge transfer is the strengthening of connections. Composite and welded connections are commonly used in steel bridges. Each of these connections can affect the structural response to lateral loads such as cyclic loads. In this study, four steel bridge models with different types of connections, including composite and welded connections, are created in the finite element (FE) platform ABAQUS. After validation of a FE model using available experimental data, cyclic loading has been employed according to the load history proposed by Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC). The results indicate that using composite connections can increase shear capacity and improve ductility of the system. Also using composite connection can transfer stress concentrated from connection to other areas.