Cyclic response of Moment Resisting joints for tubular structures with passing‐through beams

Abstract This study investigates the cyclic behaviour of an innovative steel moment‐resisting beam‐to‐column connection, which consists of welded Square Hollow Section (SHS) columns and passing‐through double‐tee beams. Due to its novelty and the absence of specific design equations in current provisions, the practical use of this connection remains limited. As a result, recent research has increasingly focused on understanding its structural behaviour. In particular, research conducted at the University of Salerno has examined the flexural performance of these joints using the component method approach. Through a combination of experimental, numerical, and analytical studies, key nodal components have been identified, and equations to evaluate the initial stiffness and yield strength have been proposed. While these efforts have advanced knowledge of the joint's monotonic behaviour, its response under cyclic loading is still not fully explored. To fill this gap, the present study introduces a preliminary numerical strategy to assess the cyclic flexural behaviour of connections between SHS columns and passing‐through IPE beams. Building on previous findings and using the component method framework, the study employs numerical simulations with a concentrated plasticity model across various geometric configurations. Finally, this work introduces a predictive formulation regarding the rotational ductility of the examined connection.