Validated finite element techniques for quasi-static cyclic response analyses of braced frames at sub-member scales

Abstract In this study, a numerically robust finite element procedure is described, which is based on explicit time-stepping, for high-fidelity simulations of inelastic and post-buckling cyclic responses of braced frame systems. The use of an explicit time-stepping method with properly chosen increments permits accurate results while avoiding (implicit) equilibrium iterations throughout the entire loading history, during which multiple yielding and buckling events occur. A number of essential techniques for properly calibrating the discrete models and to constrain their responses in order to obtain quasi-static outcomes are provided. The procedure is globally and locally validated (verified) using experimental data (implicit numerical simulations) from three types of specimens—namely, individual braces, and single and multi-story braced frame systems with diagonal and X-brace arrangements—under both monotonic and cyclic loading protocols. Results from these validation and verification studies indicate that the proposed simulation methodology can accurately capture sub-member (i.e., plastic hinges), member, and system behavior very accurately; and thus, it can be confidently used—e.g., as a virtual laboratory—to predict the responses of braced frames with configurations and dimensions other than those tested, and to seek optimum designs beyond those offered by basic guidelines.

[1]  Manolis Papadrakakis,et al.  A 3D fibre beam-column element with shear modelling for the inelastic analysis of steel structures , 2010 .

[2]  David P. Thambiratnam,et al.  Blast and residual capacity analysis of reinforced concrete framed buildings , 2011 .

[3]  Chung-Che Chou,et al.  Subassemblage tests and finite element analyses of sandwiched buckling-restrained braces , 2010 .

[4]  Ho-Jung Lee,et al.  Performance of cable-stayed bridge pylons subjected to blast loading , 2011 .

[5]  Dawn E. Lehman,et al.  Influence of connection design parameters on the seismic performance of braced frames , 2008 .

[6]  Gian A. Rassati,et al.  Numerical simulation of gusset plate connections with rectangular hollow section shape brace under quasi-static cyclic loading , 2012 .

[7]  C. Guney Olgun,et al.  Response and Modeling of Cantilever Retaining Walls Subjected to Seismic Motions , 2008, Comput. Aided Civ. Infrastructure Eng..

[8]  Sherif El-Tawil,et al.  Inelastic Cyclic Model for Steel Braces , 2003 .

[9]  Dawn E. Lehman,et al.  Analytical Performance Simulation of Special Concentrically Braced Frames , 2008 .

[10]  Stephen A. Mahin,et al.  Model for Cyclic Inelastic Buckling of Steel Braces , 2008 .

[11]  P. Carydis,et al.  Explicit finite‐element analysis for the in‐plane cyclic behavior of unreinforced masonry structures , 2011 .

[12]  Manolis Papadrakakis,et al.  Buckling analysis of imperfect I-section beam-columns with stochastic shell finite elements , 2010 .

[13]  L Ling,et al.  Finite element technique for design of stub columns , 2000 .

[14]  Wing Kam Liu,et al.  Nonlinear Finite Elements for Continua and Structures , 2000 .

[15]  Ian Burgess,et al.  Numerical simulation of bolted steel connections in fire using explicit dynamic analysis , 2008 .

[16]  Dawn E. Lehman,et al.  Investigation of the seismic response of three-story special concentrically braced frames , 2012 .

[17]  Judy Liu,et al.  Cyclic Testing of Simple Connections Including Effects of Slab , 2000 .

[18]  Dawn E. Lehman,et al.  Simulated behavior of multi-story X-braced frames , 2009 .

[19]  Kiyohiro Ikeda,et al.  Cyclic Response of Steel Braces , 1986 .

[20]  Larry Alan Fahnestock,et al.  Buckling-restrained braced frame connection performance , 2010 .

[21]  Zhaohui Huang,et al.  Progressive collapse analysis of steel structures under fire conditions , 2012 .

[22]  Dawn E. Lehman,et al.  Improved Seismic Performance of Gusset Plate Connections , 2008 .

[23]  Dawn E. Lehman,et al.  IMPROVED ANALYTICAL MODEL FOR SPECIAL CONCENTRICALLY BRACED FRAMES , 2012 .

[24]  David A. Nethercot,et al.  Numerical study of stainless steel gusset plate connections , 2013 .

[25]  Dawn E. Lehman,et al.  Influence of gusset plate connections and braces on the seismic performance of X‐braced frames , 2011 .

[26]  Manicka Dhanasekar,et al.  Explicit finite element analysis of lightly reinforced masonry shear walls , 2008 .

[27]  Robert B. Fleischman,et al.  A cast modular bracing system for steel special concentrically braced frames , 2012 .

[28]  Phill-Seung Lee,et al.  Inelastic buckling behavior of steel members under reversed cyclic loading , 2010 .

[29]  M. M. Alinia,et al.  A Validated Finite Element Procedure for Buckling Simulation of Diagonally Braced Moment Resisting Frames , 2011 .

[30]  John F. Hall,et al.  Beam-column modeling , 1995 .

[31]  M. M. Alinia,et al.  Inelastic Buckling Simulation of Steel Braces through Explicit Dynamic Analyses , 2011 .

[32]  A. Y. Elghazouli,et al.  Cyclic testing and numerical modelling of carbon steel and stainless steel tubular bracing members , 2010 .