Experimental investigation of the behavior of laced columns under constant axial load and cyclic lateral load

In this study, the cyclic behavior of laced built-up columns was investigated. Eight columns, for which two IPE100 profiles were used as the longitudinal elements (chords) and plates were used as the lacing bars, were constructed and tested under constant axial load and lateral cyclic load. To evaluate the effects of the axial load, different axial loads were exerted on the specimens. To evaluate the effects of varying the distance between chords, two different distances were used in the test specimens. The test results showed that the axial load significantly affected the ductility, the strength and the stiffness of the built-up columns. The different distances between the main chords of the columns changed the ductility but had little effect on the strength, stiffness and energy absorption capacity. The test results showed that the laced columns exhibited relatively good seismic characteristics, and it may be acceptable to use these types of columns in moderate earthquake-prone areas.