Seismic behavior evaluation of zipper braced steel frames based on push-over and incremental dynamic analyses

Purpose An analytical investigation is performed on zipper-braced frames. Zipper-braced frames are an innovative bracing system for steel structures. Conventional inverted-V-braced frames exhibit a design problem arising from the unbalanced vertical force generated by the lower story braces when one of them buckles. This adverse effect can be mitigated by adding zipper columns or vertical members connecting the intersection points of the braces above the first floor. Design/methodology/approach This paper critically evaluates over strength, ductility and response modification factors of these structures. To achieve the purpose of this research, several buildings of different stories are considered. Static pushover analysis, linear dynamic analysis and nonlinear incremental dynamic analysis are performed by OpenSees software concerning ten records of past earthquakes. Findings Also, ductility factor, over strength factor and response modification factor, has been calculated for zipper-braced frames system. The values of 3.5 and 5 are suggested for response modification factor in ultimate limit state and allowable stress methods, respectively. Originality/value The fragility curves were plotted for the first time for such kind of braces. It should be mentioned that these curves play significant roles in evaluating seismic damage of buildings.