Impact of rigid and semi-rigid connections on dual-steel frames with various bracing systems using non-linear dynamic analysis

Document Type : Regular Paper

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Hakim Sabzevari University, Sabzevar, Iran

2 Department of Civil Engineering, Neyshabur Branch, Islamic Azad University, Neyshabur, Iran

3 Department of Civil Engineering, Hakim Sabzevari University, Sabzevar, Iran

10.22075/jrce.2025.2442

Abstract

During the occurrence of various earthquakes, the formation of local cracks in the connections of the steel frames is regarded as a main problem. Hence, scholars have paid a special attention to the application of steel frames with semi-rigid connections. So far, the frames with semi-rigid connections are rarely utilized, which is mainly due to their high drift rate. In the present article, the impact of semi-rigid connections on the dual-steel frames with various bracing systems was assessed using non-linear dynamic analysis. For accomplishing the analysis, the PERFORM 3D Software was used and the bilinear models were used for modelling the behavior of frames' members. The parameters investigated include maximum base shear, period, frames' drift and energy depreciation of dual systems. The obtained results indicated that the semi-rigid connections lead to decrease in the base shear, while the braces of dual system compensate the increase of drift resulted from utilization of semi-rigid connections.

Graphical Abstract

Impact of rigid and semi-rigid connections on dual-steel frames with various bracing systems using non-linear dynamic analysis

Highlights

  • Semi-rigid connections in dual-steel frames reduce maximum base shear while braces compensate for increased drift.
  • The structure period increases with semi-rigid connections and higher floor counts, resulting in softer seismic behavior and reduced forces.
  • Dual systems effectively control lateral drifts, particularly under semi-rigid connection configurations.
  • The stiffness of braces minimizes the impact of semi-rigid connections on hysteresis energy absorption.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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History

  • Receive Date: 12 September 2025
  • Revise Date: 06 December 2025
  • Accept Date: 23 December 2025

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