cyclic testing of steel chevron braces with vertically slotted beam connection

experimental tests were performed to study the seismic behavior and performance ofmodified steel chevron braced frame systems, which incorporate a vertical slotted connection(vsc) detail between the top of the braces and the floor beam above. the vsc detail isintended to prevent vertical load transfer to the beam and limit brace forces to thecompressive resistance of the members. full-scale quasi-static cyclic tests were performed ontwo specimens with hollow tube braces, with one specimen having the braces filled withconcrete. both frames exhibited stable, predictable behavior under cyclic loading. the vscdetail provided free vertical movement of the brace assembly during both tests. however, itsflexibility created a moderate reduction in the overall lateral stiffness of the frame. theconcrete-filled tube specimen sustained higher peak loads, demonstrated greater residualstrength and dissipated more energy than the hollow tube specimen due to the partialinhibition of local buckling by the concrete core. it was found that the vsc chevron bracedframe system is a suitable concept for use in buildings in high-risk seismic zones.