Probabilistic seismic demand models of steel structures equipped with dissipative replaceable devices

Abstract

This paper provides insights into a probabilistic demand analysis of steel-concrete structures with novel dissipative and replaceable components conceived to pursue repairability in the structures they equip. Incremental Dynamic Analyses (IDAs) were conducted to investigate the impact of incorporating two different dissipative seismic devices: the Dissipative Replaceable Link Frame (DRLF) and the Dissipative Replaceable Beam Splices (DRBeS). The benchmark models were validated using the results from full-scale laboratory tests conducted by means of hybrid simulation within the RFCS DISSIPABLE project. Additionally, the behaviour of these innovative frames was compared to that of a Reference moment-resisting frame, designed according to current standards. Probabilistic demand models were developed, and seismic fragility curves were derived to compare the performance of the analysed structural systems. The findings of this comparative analysis will illustrate that, from a performance perspective, structures equipped with replaceable devices exhibit a seismic behaviour comparable to that of a frame designed according to traditional criteria. Consequently, from an economic viewpoint, despite an initial installation cost, devices enhancing structural resilience permit reduced costs and times associated with restoration activities.