Experimental and Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis Data for an Innovative Buckling Restrained Bracing System to Rehabilitate Seismically Deficient Structures

Abstract

This article presents experimental data and nonlinear finite element analysis (NLFEA) modeling for an innovative buckling restrained bracing (BRB) system. The data were collected from qualification testing of introduced BRBs per the AISC 341 test provision and finite element modeling. The BRB is made of three parts: core bar, restraining unit, and end units, in which duplicates of three different core bar cross sections (i.e., fully threaded, threaded notched, and smooth shaved) were tested. The BRBs introduced in this research come with innovative end parts, so-called fingers. These fingers provide the longitudinal gap required in every BRB system and simultaneously prevent buckling of the core bar at the end regions at both ends of the BRB sample, thus facilitating an easy core replacement if it gets damaged in the event of an earthquake. The measured parameters were the applied cyclic load and the corresponding displacement. Analysis of the acquired data illustrated an almost symmetric hysteric behavior with a little higher capacity under compression but a noticeable overall ductility of 4. Moreover, finite element modeling data for one type of core bar (fully threaded) were curated. The data presented in this paper will be valuable for fabricating BRBs in practice and further research on the topic considered.

Seismic Resilience of Steel-Braced Frames Incorporating Steel Slit Dampers: A Review and Comparative Numerical Analysis

“…Extensive research has been conducted to enhance the seismic performance of CBFs. For instance, investigations have focused on preventing brace buckling through restraining mechanisms, examining connection details of corner and middle gusset plates, evaluating the type and size of braces, and optimizing the arrangement of the braces [75][76][77]. For instance, a buckling-restrained brace (BRB) is engineered and employed to bolster strength, stiffness, and ductility against lateral loads.…”

Numerical Investigation of Flexural Behavior of Reinforced Concrete (RC) T-Beams Strengthened with Pre-Stressed Iron-Based (FeMnSiCrNi) Shape Memory Alloy Bars

“…Finite element analysis (FEA) is a numerical method that solves complex engineering problems by dividing the structure into smaller parts called finite elements [43,44]. These elements are then analyzed using computer software to determine the structure's stresses, strains, and deformations under various loading conditions [45,46].…”