An Experimental Study on the Seismic Performance of a Replaceable Steel Link System Acting as a Structural Fuse

This study investigated the seismic performance of reinforced concrete columns retrofitted with Replaceable Steel Links (RSLs), focusing on the effects of varying sliding slot lengths and torsional loads. The RSL system, known for its simple construction and effective seismic performance, was analyzed to assess the feasibility of substituting damaged steel links post-earthquake, using the system as a structural fuse. The experimental results highlighted the role of sliding slot lengths in delaying the initiation of shear cracks, especially under eccentric lateral loads. The RSL system exhibited notable torsional resistance, showing only a 10% decrease in maximum load capacity, even with a two-fold increase in the eccentric distance. Furthermore, with an increase in sliding slot length, the difference in cumulative energy dissipation attributable to augmented eccentric distances reached approximately 50%, indicating a notable impact of sliding slot length on the system’s ability to resist torsion. Consequently, it is recommended that the length of the sliding slot be based on the specific seismic design objectives when employing the RSL system as a structural fuse. The post-experiment inspection revealed no deformation in the steel plates, and the buckled steel links could be effortlessly replaced by loosening the high-tensile bolts in the slots. These findings demonstrate the RSL system’s efficiency as a structural fuse.