Steel Plate Energy Absorbers for Improved Earthquake Resistance

This paper discusses results of an combined experimental and analytical investigation on seismic response of frame structures using welded steel triangular plates as added damping and stiffness device. The experimental responses of the proposed energy dissipating device are reviewed first. The effects of the ratio of the device stiffness to that of the bare frame and the ratio of the entire frame strength to that of the device are analyzed. Based on these studies, a design procedure useful to practicing engineers is developed.