Development of resilient friction beams and application to moment-resisting frames

Abstract This paper proposes the concept of resilient friction beams (RFBs) and investigates how RFBs can be economically implemented in moment-resisting frames (MFs) to improve seismic performance . The RFBs mainly consist of two T-shaped beams and four cap plates, resulting in a cost-effective configuration that employs less steel than previous self-centring beam designs. The mechanics of the RFB are first explained, and the equations predicting its responses are given. Two numerical methods are presented for modelling RFBs. The results from a finite element model (FEM) confirmed the sliding behaviour of the RFBs. Then a simplified spring model was created for performing nonlinear dynamic analysis. Finally, a set of steel framed buildings with different heights were designed and computationally subjected to two seismic levels of ground motions. The results suggest that residual interstory drift , peak base shears and peak absolute accelerations can be effectively limited by providing RFBs at the lower storeys.