Special Truss Moment Frame Component Test 16 - 2HSS8x4x1/2

Similarly to Specimen 8 (2HSS8x4x1/2 with cover plates), Specimen 16 (2HSS8x4x1/2) did not exhibit lateral torsional buckling; thus eliminating the need for lateral bracing in beam-type members. Bulging was also minimal even without the horizontal stitches. When comparing hysteretic behavior of Specimen 8 and Specimen 16, it is clearly seen that without cover plates, HSSs started to lose strength earlier, at 2.5% story drift; however, strength degradation was not severe. The specimen could maintain strength up to approximately 6% member drift. It, then, gradually lost strength in the next successive drift levels due to propagation of fractures on the specimen. This specimen proved to be a good candidate for chord members of an STMF without having to implement special connection detailing.