Abstract
This paper proposes a brace whose strength, plastic deformation capacity remaining after yield and energy absorption capacity under seismic loading can be easily evaluated for performance-based seismic design. The proposed brace consists of a slender rod with tensile-connected ends incorporating a beveled washer and wedge. There is no buckling in the brace. The wedge slides between a washer and stand so as to prevent brace looseness due to axial plastic deformation under repeated loading. To verify the brace’s mechanism and performance, repeated horizontal loading tests were performed on a one-story bay frame with a tensile-connected brace having a wedge device. Results and conclusions obtained from the loading tests are summarized as follows. (1) Perfect elasto-plastic hysteresis was observed until the wedge’s sliding displacement reached its maximum. (2) Story shear stiffness, strength and energy absorption capacity were easily evaluated. (3) Plastic deformation capacity remaining after an earthquake can be evaluated by checking the wedge’s total sliding displacement. (4) Performance-based design can be easily achieved with this brace.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
