Seismic Performance Evaluation of Hybrid Coupled Walls

Abstract

Hybrid coupled walls (HCWs) are comprised of two or more reinforced concrete wall piers connected with steel coupling beams distributed over the height of the structure. Extensive research over the past several decades suggests that such systems are well suited in regions of high seismic risk. Steel coupling beams in a hybrid coupled shear wall provide a viable alternative for concrete coupling beams coupling individual reinforced concrete wall piers [1]. In such a system, coupling beams are designed to undergo inelastic deformation and dissipate seismic energy by means of capacity design principles. The coupling beam is installed with a steel plate with slits which acts as the sacrificing element. The study takes into account different slit configurations. Based on non-linear static and cyclic analysis the behaviour of coupling beams under different configuration is assessed and the best slit configuration is optimised. Time history analysis is carried out on the HCW model with the best slit configuration in ANSYS and compared with the conventional one. Thus the study proposes a new configuration of coupling beams with slits, which endows the coupling beam with damage controllability, a large capacity to consume energy, and a design flexibility regarding stiffness and strength.