An overview of HSS brace fracture in steel concentrically braced frames

Abstract

An overview of research on low cycle fatigue fracture of Hollow Structural Section (HSS) braces in steel Concentrically Braced Frames (CBFs) subjected to seismic loads is presented. The methods used to manufacture HSS profiles and effects of manufacturing on the mechanical properties and fracture response of HSSs are first described, followed by a survey of past experimental test programs on CBFs with emphasis on the observations and key findings associated with brace fracture. Seismic design requirements adopted by the Canadian steel design standard and AISC Seismic Provisions to address HSS brace fracture are then summarized. Furthermore, a thorough review of various methodologies for evaluating fracture of HSS braces under seismic loads and predictive fracture models available in the literature are given and discussed. Finally, future research directions to improve seismic design guidelines and tools and to achieve more robust predictive models for HSS brace fracture are identified and presented.