Evaluation of usage of cross-bracing members in timber frame systems

Wood is a natural building material that can renew itself. It is supplied from nature, is easy to assemble, and does not last very long. Elements of a timber structure can be removed and reused in another timber structure. Timber structures are lightweight and better than other structures in terms of seismic performance. Fire performance becomes better when appropriate cross-sections are used and some chemical processes are applied. Since timber structures are advantageous in many respects, the features of timber structures and structural elements are explained in detail within the scope of the thesis study, and traditional timber systems and modern construction systems are discussed in detail in the study. In the structural analysis section of the thesis study, 6 models were designed in which the parameters used in the structure were the same, only usage of the cross-bracing members was different, and the models were analyzed with the ETABS program with the spectral analysis method by TSC 2018 (Turkish Seismic Code). The aim was to investigate the effect of the use of single cross-bracing members in timber buildings on stability and earthquake resistance. Spectral analyses were performed for two different locations and compared the roof displacement and interstory displacement values. Also were compared shear force values of one column and one beam element of the models. According to the results of the analysis, it was determined that the most suitable model was the one in which the cross-bracing members were used in the edge middle openings. As a result of the analysis, it was also found that the use of cross-bracing members significantly reduced the value of the interstory displacement and the value of the shear force of the columns. In the following studies, the effect of the usage of the x cross-bracing members on earthquake resistance can be examined and models can be multiplied with the use of cross-bracing members in different openings and spectral analysis can be applied to each model to determine the most suitable model. Also, the Equivalent seismic load method and the pushover analysis can be used.