An Experimentally Validated Numerical Model for Generating the Cyclic Backbone Curve of LYP Links

In the literature, few researchers have investigated the cyclic performance of the low-yield-point (LYP) steel links, and along with the existence of some uncertainty about the strain hardening contribution to the overstrength factor of LYP steel links, there is no analytical spring-based model used in general-purpose structural analysis programs for modeling the actual behavior of the EBFs. Therefore, researchers have to generate a micro finite element (FE) model for evaluating the seismic performance of these types of systems. To provide guidance for engineering applications, this paper tries to develop an experimentally validated numerical model for generating the cyclic backbone curve of LYP links. In this regard, firstly, a comprehensive instruction was established for valid modeling of the LYP steel I-shaped links using ABAQUS software, and then the accuracy of the proposed FE model was assessed by comparing with six available experimental tests, indicating a good agreement between the results in terms of initial stiffness, post-yielding stiffness, ultimate shear strength, deformation capacity, and also damage initiation and evolution.