Master of Science / Department of Architectural Engineering and Construction Science / Kimberly W. Kramer / Dual Lateral Force Resisting Systems are currently required by code to include a Moment Resisting Frame capable of resisting at least 25% of the lateral loads. This thesis evaluates the seismic performance of a specific type of dual system: a Special Moment Resisting Frame-Special Concentric Brace Frame System (SMRF-SCBF) under three different force distributions. The three distributions were 80% - 20%, 75% - 25%, and 70% - 30% with the lesser force being allotted to the Special Moment Resisting Frame (SMRF) portion of the system. In order to evaluate the system, a parametric study was performed. The parametric study consisted of three SMRF-SCBF systems designed with different seismic force distributions. The aim of this study was to determine accuracy of the three different seismic force distributions. The accuracy was measured by comparing individual system models’ data and combined system models’ data. The data used for comparison included joint deflections (both horizontal and vertical), induced moments at moment connections, brace axial loads, column shears, and column base reactions. Two-dimensional models using the structural software RISA 3D were used to assist in designing the independent Seismic Force Resisting Systems. The designs of the frames were not finely tuned (smallest member size for strength), but were designed for drift (horizontal deflection) requirements and constructability issues. Connection designs were outside the scope of the study, except for constructability considerations – the SMRF and the SCBF did not have a common column; the frames were a bay apart connected with a link beam. The results indicated that a seismic force distribution of 75% to the SCBF and 25% to the SMRF most accurately predicts that frame’s behavior. A force distribution of 80% to the SCBF and 20% to the SMRF resulted in moderately accurate results as well. A vast opportunity for further research into this area of study exists. Alterations to the design process, consideration of wind loads, or additional force distributions are all recommended changes for further research into this topic.

Master of Science / Department of Architectural Engineering / Kimberly Waggle Kramer / Braced frames are a common seismic lateral force resisting system used in steel structures. Ordinary concentric braced frames (OCBFs) and special concentric braced frames (SCBFs) are two major types of frames. Brace layouts vary for both OCBFs and SCBFs. This report examines the inverted-V brace layout which is one common arrangement. OCBFs are designed to remain in the elastic range during the design extreme seismic event. As a result, OCBFs have relatively few special requirements for design. SCBFs are designed to enter the inelastic range during the design extreme seismic event while remaining elastic during minor earthquakes and in resisting wind loads. To achieve this, SCBFs must meet a variety of stringent design and detailing requirements to ensure robust seismic performance characterized by high levels of ductility. The design of steel seismic force resisting systems must comply with the requirements of the American Institute of Steel Construction’s (AISC) Seismic Provisions for Structural Steel Buildings. Seismic loads are determined in accordance with the American Society of Engineers Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures. Seismic loads are very difficult to predict as is the behavior of structures during a large seismic event. However, a properly designed and detailed steel structure can safely withstand the effects of an earthquake. This report examines a two-story office building in a region of moderately high seismic activity. The building is designed using OCBFs and SCBFs. This report presents the designs of both systems including the calculation of loads, the design of frame members, and the design and detailing of the connections. The purpose of this report is to examine the differences in design and detailing for the two braced frame systems.