Retrofitting of pinned beam–column connections in RC precast frames using lead extrusion dampers

A novel retrofitting application for pinned beam–column connections in RC precast frames was investigated from experimental and numerical perspectives. The application is based on the insertion of a lead extrusion damper (LED) in regions of beam–column connection of precast RC frames. The bending moment and deformations at the column base tends to decrease with increased damping, and the shear force at the connection of the LED on the structural member increases with the insertion of an LED. Half-scale non-retrofitted and retrofitted specimens were tested on a shake table. In addition, nonlinear dynamic time history analyses were carried out. The structural behaviors of non-retrofitted and retrofitted specimens were compared based on the experimental and numerical results. Ultimate displacement and story drift of the precast frame, the bending moment and plastic deformations at the column base were significantly reduced via the insertion of an LED. Also, the numerical results are in agreement with the experimental results.