Performance of intermediate and long links in eccentrically braced frames

Recent researches about the performance of eccentrically braced frames have shown that some of the intermediate-length links do not meet the requirements of AISC2005. Further investigations on the current AISC 2005 provisions and also assessing the effect of involved parameters on the behavior of this type of links have been carried out in this research. Moreover, to cover the shortages of previous researches conducted on the performance of long links compared to short ones, some flexural links are also put into the study. By analyzing the links made of European-standard rolled shape sections, validity of the provisions for these types of links, which fewer investigations about them are available, is also examined. The Finite element analysis employing 3D solid elements is implemented to model a total of 68 links. Results of the study imply some design suggestions for these types of links. Also, the slenderness ratio of the web as well as the specification of the stiffeners is discerned as important parameters impacting on the performance of the intermediate links.

► Stiffener specification and slenderness ratio of the web effect link behavior.
► Design provisions of intermediate links in the seismic codes should be revised.
► Design of intermediate link situated in special length range should be avoided.
► Long links could be divided into two or more groups upon their length range.