Seismic Design Parameters for the Link Column Frame System

Abstract

The Linked Column Frame (LCF) is proposed as a steel seismic load resisting system consisting of two components: a primary lateral system made up of dual columns interconnected with link beams (denoted linked columns); and a secondary moment frame. Previous research has developed a procedure that ensures the links of the linked columns yield at a significantly lower story drift than the beams of the moment frame, enabling design of this system for three distinct performance states: linearly elastic; rapid repair, where only link damage occurs and quick link replacement is possible; and collapse prevention. This paper discusses additional analyses that have been performed to establish recommended values for seismic design parameters, including the response modification coefficient, R, the system over-strength factor, Ω, and the deflection amplification factor (C d ). A suite of archetype LCF buildings were developed and incremental dynamic analysis was performed according the procedures in FEMA P695.