Performance of PR Moment Frame Buildings in UBC Seismic Zones 3 and 4

Abstract

Case studies of two buildings having partially restrained (PR) moment frame lateral-force-resisting systems are presented: a 3-story building for a Los Angeles Uniform Building Code (UBC) zone 4 site, and a 9-story building for a Seattle zone 3 site. The buildings are designed using state-of-practice techniques for PR construction. Seismic behavior is evaluated using performance-based engineering objectives via numerous nonlinear time history computer analyses using suites of earthquake ground motions. It is found that the PR buildings have the potential for use in areas of moderate and high seismicity, but there are factors that must be addressed prior to their acceptance.