Investigating the seismic efficiency of buckling-restrained braced frame structures

The bracing systems have been considered a reliable solution for the seismic-resistant design of buildings, which has been widely applied in recent years. This article aims to investigate the performance of braced frame structures in the seismic-resistant design. Typical buckling restrained braced frames, represented by an approximate bilinear behaviour, are selected to perform nonlinear time-history analyses. The findings indicate that bracing systems are a potential solution for seismic-resistant design, as they significantly reduce the top displacement and internal force of the structures based on their dissipation capacities through inelastic behaviour. Furthermore, the performance of vertical bracing systems is recommended to calculate according to the distribution of shear forces along the height of structures, ensuring that they are effective solutions that meet the design philosophies.