Journal of Steel & Structure

Journal of Steel & Structure

Investigation of seismic behavior of bracing connection to box column made of sheet in special braced frame systems

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
University of Science and Culture
Abstract
This study investigates the behavior of the box column at the connection to the brace gusset plate in concentrically braced frames (CBFs). In these frames, braces act as fuse elements, and their axial deformation results in buckling and nonlinear behavior and energy dissipation within the system. However, if the box column face deforms or buckles due to the force exerted by the brace, it disrupts the brace's functionality, preventing the frame from experiencing plastic phase and absorbing seismic energy. The aim of this research is to analyze and evaluate the performance of the box column face under cyclic forces, propose suitable details for brace-to-box-column connections, and provide recommendations for their design. To achieve this, previous studies were reviewed, and a 15-story residential building with special concentrically braced frames and box columns was modeled. Subsequently, seismic design of brace connections was performed, and the connections, along with the frame, were analyzed using Abaqus finite element software. The results indicate that incorporating stiffener plates at the gusset plate-to-column connection point enhances the frame stiffness and energy absorption capacity. Additionally, vertical stiffener plates demonstrated superior performance compared to horizontal ones. Finally, practical details for improving the connection's behavior were proposed and aligned with standard construction practices. This research employed theoretical and practical approaches based on finite element analysis.
Keywords

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  • Receive Date 23 July 2025
  • First Publish Date 23 July 2025
  • Publish Date 21 March 2025