Numerical and Performance Analysis of Eccentric Bracing Systems with Replaceable Structural Fuses for Seismic Damage Control

Authors

  • Milad Hamidi Department of Civil Engineering, Chalus Azad University, Chalus, Iran.
  • Morteza Biklaryan * Department of Civil Engineering, Chalus Azad University, Chalus, Iran. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6665-5550

https://doi.org/10.48314/ijrceai.vi.63

Abstract

This study investigates the performance of eccentric bracing systems and replaceable fuses in the seismic retrofitting of 14- and 20-story reinforced concrete frames. The main objective is to evaluate the effect of these systems on increasing energy dissipation capacity and reducing damage in high-rise structures subjected to seismic loads. The research methodology includes numerical simulations using Perform-3D software and nonlinear static and dynamic analyses based on FEMA-356, Publication No. 360, and Standard No. 2800.

Three proposed models with different connection configurations between steel frames and reinforced concrete frames were designed and compared with conventional systems. The analysis results indicated that the proposed models provide superior seismic performance compared with conventional systems. The optimal model, consisting of a steel link beam connected to the reinforced concrete beam, reduced the base shear by up to 17%, the stress ratio by 40%, and the material weight by 38%.

The relative lateral displacement in this model was 14% higher than that of the cross-braced system, indicating greater flexibility. The interaction between the reinforced concrete frame and the bracing system contributed 40% and 50% to lateral load resistance in the 14- and 20-story structures, respectively. Replaceable fuses significantly improved energy dissipation by concentrating stresses within the link beam.

The yield base shear in the 14- and 20-story structures was 1.15 and 1.0 times the design base shear, respectively, demonstrating the high strength capacity of the structures and reduced damage potential. Due to its high constructability and rapid post-earthquake repair capability, the proposed model is recommended for seismic retrofitting of high-rise structures.

The findings of this study demonstrate the superiority of the proposed systems in reducing inter-story drift, increasing load-bearing capacity, and improving seismic stability. The application of replaceable fuses and eccentric bracing systems provides an effective strategy for enhancing the seismic performance of high-rise reinforced concrete structures.

Keywords:

Eccentric Bracing Systems, Replaceable Structural Fuses, Energy Dissipation, High-Rise Structures

References

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Published

2026-08-11

Issue

Articles in Press

Section

Articles

How to Cite

Hamidi, M., & Biklaryan, M. (2026). Numerical and Performance Analysis of Eccentric Bracing Systems with Replaceable Structural Fuses for Seismic Damage Control. International Journal of Researches on Civil Engineering With Artificial Intelligence . https://doi.org/10.48314/ijrceai.vi.63

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