Lateral loading tests of built-up battened columns with semi-continuous base-plate connections

The paper describes and discusses results from both physical and numerical tests on lateral-load response of built-up battened steel columns with semi-rigid and partial-strength base-plate connections. Two specimens reproduced different case studies derived from two existing industrial steel buildings designed and built in the 1970s and 1990s respectively. First, multiple monotonic lateral-loading tests were carried out in the elastic range of response by varying the concomitant axial force. Subsequently, each specimen was tested under cyclic lateral-loads in the inelastic range of response for a selected value of the axial force. Following discussion and comparison of physical test results on the two specimens, the paper illustrates finite element (FE) model simulations of the physical tests. Focus of the numerical study is on highlighting modelling uncertainties, which engineering applications should consider in seismic assessment of existing buildings.