Experimental and analytic study of seismic resistant eccentrically braced frames with dissipative devices

This article presents the findings of experimental research conducted at the TAFT Structure and Earthquake Research Center under the Fuses project. The objective of this research endeavor is to develop novel types of fuses capable of dissipating energy and being easily replaced within eccentrically braced frames. During intense seismic events, damage will be localized solely within these fuses, sparing structural elements like steel beams, columns, and braces from significant harm. Subsequent repair efforts will only involve replacing the damaged fuses. Comprehensive full-scale tests have been executed to evaluate the performance of eccentrically braced frames equipped with these fuse devices under seismic conditions, assessing various factors such as hysteresis response, behavior factor, ductility, story drift, and frame stability.