Performance validation of a self-centring steel structure using robust data sets from shake table testing

McCready, Patrick, Jiang, Yadong, Salawdeh, Suhaib, Alwahsh, Hatim F.H., Broderick, Brian M., & Goggins, Jamie (2020). Performance validation of a self-centring steel structure using robust data sets from shake table testing Paper presented at the Civil Engineering Research in Ireland (CERI 2020), Cork, August.

Abstract

In recent years, there has been a shift in seismic design from moment-resisting frames to concentrically braced frames (CBFs) due to their simpler construction and cheaper costs. CBFs resist the actions created in seismic events through energy dissipation in the form of plastic deformations in braces. This paper analyses the performance of a novel self-centring CBF (SC-CBF) which aims to reduce inter-storey drifts and residual deformations in a structure. The main novelty of this structure is its self-centring behaviour, through the use of post-tensioned (PT) strands running parallel to the beam members anchored to the exterior flange of columns. The system works upon the principle of closing gap openings which open at joints between beams and columns due to the ground motion. The tension forces provided by the PT strands can close the gap openings and return the structure to its vertical position, while energy is dissipated through the plastic deformation of the bracing members. Results from shake table testing, conducted in the Institute of Earthquake Engineering and Engineering Seismology (IZIIS) in R. North Macedonia which imposed lateral accelerations, are used to analyse the performance of this novel SC-CBF system. Different data sets, namely the brace middle span strain, roof acceleration and brace elongation, are compared for selecting the robust data sets that can be used to understand the performance of the system. This is achieved by comparing the structure lateral forces calculated from the three data sets. The self-centring behaviour of the designed SC-CBF is also verified by analysing the inter-storey drifts.

Funder

Seismology and Earthquake Engineering Research Infrastructure Alliance for Europe
Science Foundation Ireland

Publisher

Civil Engineering Research Association of Ireland

Rights

Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International

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Collections

Civil Engineering (Conference Papers)