Steel Codes & Seismic Design for Space Frames

Introduction

In seismically active areas, steel space frames must not only meet load-bearing requirements but also exhibit excellent seismic performance. This article will discuss the seismic design codes, key design points, and their application in practical projects.

Seismic Design Codes for Steel Space Frames

China's "Code for Seismic Design of Buildings" (GB50011): Applicable to seismic design in mainland my country, it specifies structural seismic resistance levels, design basic earthquake accelerations, and structural categories.

USA's "Code for Seismic Design of Steel Structures" (ANSI/AISC 341): Applicable to the United States, it emphasizes the ductility and energy dissipation capacity of structures and provides specific requirements for seismic design.

European "Code for Seismic Design of Steel Structures" (EN 1998-1): Applicable to Europe, it incorporates the characteristics of steel structures and provides guiding principles for seismic design.

Key Considerations in Seismic Design

Ductility and Energy Dissipation

Space grid structures should possess good ductility, enabling them to undergo plastic deformation under earthquakes, absorb and dissipate seismic energy, and prevent brittle failure.

Redundancy and Load Path Continuity

The design should ensure structural redundancy and continuous load transfer paths to prevent overall collapse due to local failure.

Connection Detailing

Joint design should consider seismic requirements and employ appropriate connection methods, such as high-strength bolts and welding, to ensure joint stability under earthquakes.

Foundation and Soil-Structure Interaction

Foundation design should consider soil-structure interaction to ensure foundation stability and bearing capacity under earthquakes.

Case Studies and Applications

Beijing National Stadium (Bird's Nest)

This project utilizes a steel space grid structure. Seismic requirements were fully considered during design to ensure structural safety under earthquakes.

Shanghai World Expo Theme Pavilion

This project incorporates redundancy and ductility in its design to ensure structural stability and safety under earthquakes.

The use of steel space grid structures in seismically active areas requires careful consideration of seismic design requirements to ensure structural safety. Designers should be familiar with relevant standards and implement appropriate seismic design to ensure building safety.

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