The Seismic Investigation of Off-Diagonal Steel Braced RC Frames

The Seismic Investigation of Off-Diagonal Steel Braced RC Frames

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Steel bracing may be used to enhance the seismic strength of RC frames.Concentric steel bracing generally reduces ductility, which is a key component of seismic design.To overcome the problem, ductile steel brace-RC frame systems are therefore usually introduced in the form of eccentric braces.In the present study, the Off-Diagonal Bracing System (ODBS), which works as a concentric type of bracing, is investigated.In this paper the response of ODBS elements to cyclic loading is first explored and compared with those of other types of bracing such as X-bracing and inverted-V bracing systems.

The time history analysis responses Contempocat Trees and cyclic hysteresis responses of a number of lowrise to mid-rise RC frames retrofitted with different types of bracing systems are then evaluated and compared.It is shown that under seismic excitation, a much reduced base shear is experienced by frames retrofitted with ODBS compared to Bridal Party Dresses other bracing systems.The results of time history and cyclic hysteresis response analyses also indicate a far greater energy dissipation capacity and ductility for the ODBS compared to other bracing systems.It is also concluded that ODBS performs best in lowrise frames.The out-of-plane buckling response of the ODBS is also investigated, and it is shown that a double-plated central connection can control such an adverse response.