Post Tensioned Energy Dissipating Steel Frames

Since the 1960’s Welded steel Moment-Resisting Frames (MRFs) have been widely accepted as the best structure for earthquake resistant buildings. Deficiencies in this system came to light when such structures showed brittle fractures at connections after an earthquake in 1994 in California. Although none of the buildings collapsed, ongoing research has looked for a better alternative.

This research has applied the self-centering and energy dissipating connection concepts used in prefabricated concrete structures to steel structures. The post-tensioned energy dissipating (PTED) connection system limits structural damage to sacrificial bars and assures a full re-centering of the structure at the end of the earthquake.

Source: Emerging Construction Technologies