Analytical Studies of Building Cladding

Abstract

Four different analytical models are presented for architectural precast cladding on highrise buildings. An interstory shear stiffness model, an incremental failure model, a hysteresis model and a slotted connection model were used to study cladding performance from the linear elastic range up to failure. The models were added to a finite element model of the structural frame of a 25‐story steel frame office building to account for the lateral stiffening effect of the building facade. Cladding stiffness values were based upon a comparison of measured and computed vibration frequencies for the building. Results of the study include peak interstory drift plots and a representation of the cladding failure state for the case of moderate earthquake ground motion input. Cladding stiffness was found to have a substantial effect on building dynamic properties and linear seismic response.