ABSTRACT
Seismic performance of structural components is widely evaluated by deformation-controlled cyclic tests with regular and simple deformation patterns or loading protocols. In past researches, different loading protocols have been developed for various purposes (Krawinkler, 2009). Some of them have been implemented in codes for the seismic qualification of steel connection assemblies and structural elements such as BRBs. The loading protocol specified in CSA S16-09 is the same as the one given in Appendix T of AISC 341-05 (AISC, 2005). This protocol includes a series of displacement cycles with stepwise incremented ductility ratio amplitudes (Figure 2). This protocol was developed for BRBFs assumed to be located along the west coast of California and designed according to the USA provisions (Sabelli et al., 2003) and may not be suitable for BRBFs designed and built in Canada.
