Seismic resistance of precast concrete frame system with hollow column and universal coupler

In order to improve the workability in erecting Precast Concrete (PC) members and enhance the seismic resistance capacity of the joints in PC moment frames, a new PC column and its construction process are introduced in this paper. This column is manufactured by centrifugal force in keeping the hollow tube inside; the hollow is little bit wide and the grout can be poured from top to bottom after erection at site so that more compact grouting is possible in horizontal joint. The repeated cyclic loading test for four full scaled specimens was conducted to evaluate the seismic resistance capacity of the joint designed by the proposed system. For the continuity of main reinforcements in column, two connecting methods are used in designing specimens; one is to use mechanical connector and other is lab splice. From the cyclic lateral loading test, it was found that the seismic capacity of the developed PC column joint is comparable to that of monolithic joint.