Nonlinear analysis of braced frames with composite columns

In buildings to be designed in earthquake zones, horizontal load bearing systems are needed to meet the earthquake effects. In horizontal load bearing systems, both frame system shape and column elements are of great importance. In recent years, the use of composite columns has increased due to their advantages. Composite columns can be applied as steel embedded and concrete filled. Both concentric and eccentric braced frames are frequently used as horizontal load bearing systems. Energy consumption is provided by diagonal members in concentric braced frames, while it is provided by link beam members in eccentrically braced frames. In this thesis, composite columns are used in the design of a highly ductile building with three different types of horizontal load-bearing frames: concentric braced frame, horizontal braced frame with horizontal link beams and eccentrically braced frame with vertical link beams. Composite columns were used in four different types, two concrete filled and two steel embedded composites. Inverted V bracing was chosen as bracing type due to some architectural advantages. The frame type with vertical tie beams is defined as inverted Y frame due to its appearance. Within the scope of the thesis, the targeted damage levels of the frames with composite columns and diagonals are investigated by applying nonlinear analysis, which is a pushover method. In addition, ductility, stiffness, lateral load carrying and energy consumption capacities are calculated and evaluated in terms of frame configuration and composite column type.