Finite Element Modelling and Analysis of "All-Steel" Dismountable Buckling Restrained Braces

This paper describes a theoretical investigation on the response of "all-steel" dismountable buckling restrained braces (BRBs) through the analysis of finite element models (FEMs). The focus of this investigation is on a special type of BRB developed for seismic upgrading of existing reinforced concrete buildings and experimentally tested previously. After a short summary of experimental results, the paper describes the finite element models and the analysis results. Subsequently, a discussion addresses the following issues: (i) influence of the core-to-casing clearance; (ii) influence of spacing of connections along the casing longitudinal axis; (iii) compression-to-tension strength ratio; (iv) core buckling wavelengths and core-to-casing interaction forces. Finally, the paper presents a comparison of numerical results and available analytical models.