Seismic Resilience Analysis of Steel Moment Frames Equipped with Dissipative Replaceable Devices

Abstract

This study aims to probabilistically evaluate the seismic resilience of steel structures equipped with dissipative and replaceable components. These elements are specifically designed to enhance the repairability of the structures, thereby minimizing downtime and facilitating rapid post-earthquake recovery. Moreover, the effects of dissipative replaceable devices on fragility and vulnerability estimates are investigated. This study examined two steel buildings, a 6-story and a 12-story structure, considered under two distinct configurations: conventional moment-resisting frames and frames equipped with dissipative replaceable links. Preliminary designs were first developed, followed by the creation of detailed nonlinear models in OpenSees. The seismic performance was then assessed through Incremental Dynamic Analysis using a set of generic ground motion records. For each damage state, distinct recovery functions are defined, and 500 realizations are generated through the Latin Hypercube sampling technique to construct probabilistic resilience curves. The results demonstrate that incorporating dissipative replaceable devices significantly enhances the seismic performance and resilience of steel structures. Compared to conventional frames, link-equipped frames exhibited reduced inter-story drifts, leading to lower non-structural damage and concentration of inelastic demands in replaceable links rather than primary members. Fragility analysis confirmed a reduction in the probability of damage states, particularly at life safety and collapse prevention levels. Resilience indices further highlighted the superior functionality retention and faster recovery of frames with replaceable links, especially under strong earthquakes. Comparative assessment of 6- and 12-story buildings indicated that the benefits of dissipative links are consistent across different heights, with even greater improvements observed in taller structures.