Earthquake resistant design of concentrically braced steel frames

Abstract
New provisions of the CSA standard for steel structures (CAN/CSA-S16.1-M89) dealing with detailing of concentrically braced frames for seismic design are described and related to requirements of the National Building Code of Canada. The basis of the new requirements is outlined, and an example eight-storey frame is used to outline a methodology for the design process for a ductile braced frame and to illustrate the impact of the provisions. Key words: design, structural engineering, steel, earthquakes, braced frame, standards.