Case-Study of a Cost-Based Seismic Design for a R.C. Frame With Additional Dissipative Brace Systems

Abstract

The employment of cost-based design framework in seismic engineering is an important issue researchers are dealing with in last years. It mainly assumes loss indicators as design parameters, aiming to make a designer having greater consciousness about losses to expect due to seismic loads. In the state-of-art there are many proposals of loss-based seismic design methods. As well, it is possible to read about loss assessment analysis of several case-study systems. Although, very poor indications are provided about loss assessment of structural systems equipped with dissipative braces, that today represent a valid seismic design alternative. This work aims to present a case-study structure of a reinforced concrete building equipped with shear link dampers supported by a bracing system. The loss assessment analysis of the structure is realized through the use of PACT software (FEMA P58). The shear link's fragility curve is constructed starting from experimental test results, while the corresponding repair cost curve is generated through engineering judgment. Main loss results are commented and analyzed in the view of implementing a cost-based design framework.