ANALYSIS OF ECCENTRICALLY BRACED FRAMES WITH SHEAR LINKS

Abstract

The application of eccentrically braced frames (EBFs) as lateral load resisting system has become increasingly popular due to its high stiffness and excellent ductility. This thesis presents the seismic assessment of a suite of EBF systems designed in accordance with AISC 341-16. Results from the analysis demonstrate the concentration of deformations and energy dissipation within few storeys even exceeding the codified values. The scatter of these parameters with the height of the frames was targeted using Performance Based Plastic Design (PBPD) Procedure. The performance of EBFs designed using latter was found to be comparatively much better than that of conventionally designed EBFs. De-coupling the link segment from the rest of frame members by providing replaceable type link facilitates control of strength, ductility and stiffness of EBFs independently. Moreover, it ensures quick and convenient post-damage repair by removal and replacement of the distorted link sections without hindering the operational use of the building. This thesis presents the analysis of EBF systems with replaceable shear links composed of lower grade steel connected through bolted end-plate connections to the floor beam. Results demonstrate that the performance of latter is similar to that of conventional EBFs in which the link section is continuous with the floor beam despite the flexibility of the link to beam connections