Experimental and analytical studies on Buckling-Restrained Knee Bracing systems with channel sections

In this paper, Buckling-Restrained Knee Bracing (BRKB) system was developed through sub-assemblage tests. The core plate of the BRKB was restrained with two channel sections. Tests of the five BRKBs were carried out under cyclic loading as specified in the AISC (2005) Seismic Provisions. It was observed that the ductility and energy dissipation capacity of the BRKBs were mainly affected by the variables: size of core plate, size of channel sections, and size of end plate. Four out of five specimens satisfied the compression-strength adjustment factor and cumulative plastic ductility specified in the provisions. The BRKB, which showed the best performance among the test specimens, was applied to a piloti type reinforced concrete building. Static pushover and non-linear time history analyses were performed to confirm the retrofit effect. The analysis results showed that the installation of the BRKBs improved the seismic behavior of the building significantly in terms of strength and story drift.