Stability behavior and ductility performance analysis of buckling-restrained braces

Stability behavior and ductility performance are important seismic performance parameters of buckling-restrained brace (BRB). Using ANSYS, we analyzed the global stability performance of BRB and its ductility performance which are influenced by the restriction coefficient. The mechanical performance is changed as a result of buckling of the inner core in higher modes, and then the reason for higher modes buckling of BRB is researched. The influence of the clearance between inner concrete core and steel tube is analyzed. The above analysis suggests the limit value of the restriction coefficient of BRB be 2.5, and the clearance between inner core and outer element be 1/20~1/10 of inner core's width. These results are verified with the experimental results of four BRB components.