THE PERFORMANCE OF COLUMN-TO-FOUNDATION JOINTS IN PRE-CAST HOME SYSTEMS: A COMPARISON BETWEEN BOLT CONNECTION AND POCKET JOINTS

Abstract

This article presents guidelines for making a correctly. Currently, pre-cast housing systems have gained widespread popularity in Thailand due to their numerous advantages, such as expedited construction timelines and the ability to control the quality of materials used, which effectively meet the growing demand. Furthermore, ongoing developments aim to enhance the resilience of pre-cast homes against natural disaster, particularly seismic activity. One crucial component of the precast system that significantly influences its structural integrity and earthquake resistance is the joint between various structural elements, including the connections between columns and beams, as well as the column-to-foundation joints. 

This research aims to investigate the failure behavior of the column-to-foundation joint in pre-cast homes subjected to seismic forces. Specifically, it compares two types of joints: Pocket joint and the Bolt Connection joint, under earthquake forces in compliance with Thailand's seismic design standards. 

The findings from this research will facilitate the design of column-to-foundation joints in pre-cast homes that can effectively withstand seismic forces. Additionally, it will assess the potential for time and cost savings during installation. By selecting the most appropriate joint type, construction costs can be reduced, while safety and structural integrity will be enhanced in the construction of pre-cast homes in Thailand. 

Testing will be conducted by analyzing the forces acting on a three-story pre-cast home structure. The forces derived from the analysis will be used to design joint components according to established standards, followed by testing under cyclic loading conditions by finite element method to simulate seismic activity. The load-bearing capacity of both joint types will be assessed until failure. Furthermore, the study will examine the differences in bending moment capacity and shear force across the joint types, providing guidelines for selecting the most effective joint for seismic resistance, ensuring that the column-to-foundation joint designs are both suitable and safe for use in Thailand.