Steel Frame Brace Design

[Hercul3s]

Can anyone tell me the reason for the "fuse region" (space between connections) in an eccentric Inverted "V" Brace? I am pretty sure it allows for deformation of the beam to which they connect, but what is the main advantage of that? Please see file attached. Thanks.

 

[JAE]

The fuse region provides a location in the brace that will deform inelastically and absorb energy to provide a better type of brace in high seismic regions....verses a more brittle brace system in the other types shown on your attachment (like a concentric X brace).



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[sandman21]

An eccentrically braced frame (EBF) has the advantage of combining the stiffness of a braced frame system with the ductility and energy dissipation of a moment frame. Thus getting the a better response modification factor

 

[Hercul3s]

Excellent - Got it!
Any hint on how to calculate or dimension of the fuse region? Is the "beam depth" a rule-of-thumb to follow?

 

[JAE]

Look here: AISC Seismic Provisions for Structural Steel Buildings ANSI/AISC 341-10

Free AISC specification for download. Has a bit of commentary on EBF's and the specification itself.



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[Hercul3s]

Thanks guys!!