The Effect of Y-Shaped Brace Configuration on Its Seismic Behavior

Incorporating bracing systems into seismic-resistant structures may induce some architectural limitations such as the impossibility of implementing openings. One of the considered solutions to solve the problem of opening in bracing systems without any architectural disruption is the Y-shaped bracing system. This research evaluates the behavior factor, stiffness, ductility coefficient, and the rate of damping energy for the Y-shaped bracing systems. Finite element (FE) models are developed in Abaqus software, and the results are validated by comparing the results of FE analysis of a Y-shaped bracing frame and the results from an experimental model. Numerical evaluations show that fracture occurs in elements connected to the beam-column joints in the third member of a brace. A total of 5 models of bracing frames with different middle node distances are used to investigate parameters such as behavior factor, stiffness, ductility coefficient, and the rate of energy damping. The results suggest that geometrical modification of the Y-shaped bracing frames can improve their seismic behavior, which can be evaluated using parameters such as behavior factor, plastic deformation of the structure, stiffness, and other parameters in describing the seismic behavior of these structural systems.