Seismic retrofit of steel moment frames with arc and ring yielding dampers: A probabilistic loss assessment using FEMA P-58

Abstract

This article investigates the seismic performance and loss estimation of substandard steel moment-resisting frames (MRFs) equipped with innovative Arc and Ring Dampers (ARDs) using the FEMA P-58 probabilistic framework. Nonlinear static pushover analysis (NSPA), nonlinear time history analysis (NLTHA), and incremental dynamic analysis (IDA) are employed to assess the efficiency of ARDs in the rehabilitation of steel MRFs under seismic actions. A wide range of structural responses are explored, including peak floor acceleration (PFA) and maximum inter-story drift ratio (MIDR), alongside metrics such as damage, spectral acceleration at collapse, and repair costs. It is shown that integrating ARDs into weak MRF structures significantly enhances their seismic performance by reducing yield drift by 33 % and increasing stiffness by 2.25 times. Besides, using ARDs could effectively mitigate residual deformations and prevent collapse at both Design Basis Earthquake (DBE) and Maximum Considered Earthquake (MCE) hazard levels. However, the spectral acceleration corresponding to collapse and the acceleration at 10 % collapse probability increased by 38 % and 25 %, respectively. Adding ARDs significantly reduces repair time at the MCE hazard level, cutting it by nearly half compared to the full structural replacement time required for the MRF structure without dampers. This study highlights the benefits of ARDs in improving structural performance of substandard MRFs and reducing post-earthquake economic losses, providing a cost-effective solution for practical applications.