Shake Table Testing of Self‐Centring Concentrically Braced Frames

The self-centring system presented in this paper is a novel damage control technique designed to improve the resilience of concentrically braced frames (CBF) under seismic action. Namely, traditional CBFs can undergo large residual drifts following an earthquake event which limit opportunity for cost-effective repair structure. Additionally, gusset plates connecting brace members beams and/or columns experience substantial rotations as result compression buckling bracing members. Through utilisation post-tensioning strands placed between flanges beams, frame (SC-CBF) return its original position after significant inelastic deformations experienced during earthquakes, resulting minimum drifts. In paper, shake table testing aforementioned SC-CBF subjected realistic loading presented. research carried out part H2020 “Seismology and engineering infrastructure alliance Europe” SERA project. Four sets configurations, incorporating varying square hollow section (SHS) braces were utilised testing. Uniaxial with accelerations was executed structural response evaluated using data from strain gauges (SG), load cells (LC), displacement transducers accelerometers. measured results provide information on important parameters such tensile compressive strength braces, post-buckling capacity, plate strains force. These findings are then crucial local global performance emphasised.