Seismic Performance of Frame-Shear Wall Structure with Innovative Replaceable Coupling Beams

Abstract

This paper introduces the theory and design method of replaceable coupling beams. A real engineering project of the high-rise frame-shear structure with replaceable low-yield-strength steel shear panels was analyzed and full-scale cyclic tests of the replaceable devices were introduced. Finite element models were created and both experimental and analysis results show excellent energy dissipation capacity of the replaceable devices whereas the seismic performance of the structure with replaceable coupling beams was demonstrated through the comparison with traditional structure. It indicates that replaceable coupling beam has the desirable seismic performance by concentrating damage in the replaceable devices, whereas the global response of the structure can meet the required service levels