Full-scale cyclic testing of an ordinary concentrically-braced frame

C. Bradley, L. A. Fahnestock, E. M. Hines, J. Sizemore

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Steel concentrically-braced frames (CBFs) are used extensively as lateral-force-resisting systems for low to mid-rise buildings in moderate seismic regions of the United States, such as the East Coast and Midwest. CBFs are economical because they are stiff, strong, and relatively simple to design, fabricate, and erect. Although good structural performance of CBFs for typical gravity and wind loading is well-established, there is little evidence-either from experimental research or field observation-related to CBF performance when subjected to design-basis earthquake demands. CBFs in moderate seismic regions are often not specifically detailed to achieve ductile inelastic response, so the effect of brittle limit states is largely unknown. As a result of this situation, a research project was initiated to investigate the seismic performance of CBFs in moderate seismic regions. This paper summarizes one aspect of the project: a full-scale cyclic test of a one-bay two-story Ordinary Concentrically Braced Frame-focusing on the sequence of limit states and associated system behavior. The test frame exhibited ductile response characterized by brace compression buckling and tension yielding up to nearly 1.5% frame drift and then experienced sudden strength loss due to weld fractures.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationStructures Congress 2015 - Proceedings of the 2015 Structures Congress
EditorsNathan Ingraffea, Mark Libby
PublisherAmerican Society of Civil Engineers
Pages702-713
Number of pages12
ISBN (Electronic)9780784479117
DOIs
StatePublished - 2015
EventStructures Congress 2015 - Portland, United States
Duration: Apr 23 2015Apr 25 2015

Publication series

NameStructures Congress 2015 - Proceedings of the 2015 Structures Congress

Other

OtherStructures Congress 2015
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityPortland
Period4/23/154/25/15

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Building and Construction

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