Code provisions for seismic design for concentrically braced steel frames

In this paper, design specifications from the U.S.A., Canada and New Zealand, which derive from the same body of research, are compared. The basic design philosophy for concentrically braced steel frames, loading, and member detailing are exmined. It is concluded that, in general, the Canadian specifications are in conformity with the available information and have many similar features to codes of the other countries. Significant differences exist in the classification of braced frames, between interstorey drift requirements, in the treatment of dual structural systems, and to a lesser extent in member detailing requirements. Some features of Canadian codes meriting review are identified.