Evaluation of the Fire Behavior of Low-Rise Eccentrically Braced Frame Structures Under Different Fire Scenarios

The structural system of eccentrically braced frames (EBFs) is one of the most common structural systems with a excellent seismic performance in highly seismic areas. This study investigates the performance of this structural system in low-rise buildings. For this purpose, a three-story structure with this structural system is designed, and its behavior is investigated under six different fire scenarios. To analyze the structure under fire loads, the temperature distribution in the members exposed to the fire is first evaluated using the finite element heat transfer analysis method. Using the non-linear time history thermo-mechanics analysis method, the investigated frame is then analyzed, and the displacement and internal forces of the members are obtained. The results of these analyses show that in scenarios where the fire occurs in braced bays, the structure remains stable for a longer time, and the combination of braces and link beams is effective in redistributing the load applied to the adjacent columns.