Title:
Experimental Study of Offset Mechanical Lap Splice Behavior
Author(s):
Keith L. Coogler, Kent A. Harries, and Marcella Gallick
Publication:
Structural Journal
Volume:
105
Issue:
4
Appears on pages(s):
478-487
Keywords:
acceptance test; reinforcement bar; splice
DOI:
10.14359/19862
Date:
7/1/2008
Abstract:
The behavior of offset mechanical splices is investigated in the context of currently-prescribed acceptance test methods and criteria. Two commercially available offset mechanical splice systems were tested in direct tension with the splice both restrained and unrestrained from rotating. In this series of tests, the commonly held belief that the critical case is where the splice is not restrained from rotating is shown to be incorrect. The splices are additionally tested in air under prescribed fatigue loading conditions. Finally, the splices are tested in place in 4.7 m (15 ft 5 in.) long concrete beams under both monotonic and fatigue loading conditions and their behavior is assessed. Significant findings include a classification of splice failure modes and characterization of in-place splice behavior.