The Weight Efficiency of Steel Framed Buildings with Various Wind Bracing Systems

ABSTRACT: This research is about the efficiency of using different types of wind bracing and with different steel profiles for bracing members for multi-storey steel frames. ETABS software was used to obtain the design of frames and bracing systems with the least weight and apropriate steel section selection for beams, columns and bracing members from the standard set of steel sections. The design loads are specified in BS 5950 (2000). The serviceability limit state included in the design problem is achieved by limiting the overall and intermediate storey lateral displacement in the building to height/300 as specified by the code. Bracing members are considered to be made of Universal Angle section [Equal Angle (EA) and Unequal Angle (UA)], Rectangular Hollow section (RHHF), Circular Hollow section (CHHF) and I section [Universal Column (UC)]. This research presents the design of steel structure subjected to wind loading for buildings up to 5, 10, 15 and 20 stories with symmetrical plan and section, asymmetrical plan and section, symmetrical plan and asymmetrical section and asymmetrical plan and symmetrical section steel frame buildings with different bracing systems such as cross, zipper and knee bracing at the core and central bay of the structure. From this research it is concluded that Rectangular Hollow Section zipper bracing produces the lightest frame among the others. Keywords: Braced steel frames; Bracing systems; Wind loads; Weight of steel elements; Lateral displacement. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………