Recent Developmements of the Resilient Slip Friction Joint (RSFJ) Technology for Seismic Proofing New and Existing Buildings

Abstract

INTRODUCTION The innovative Resilient Slip Friction Joint (RSFJ) technology has recently been introduced to the NZ construction industry. This damage avoidance technology not only provides life safety, but also minimizes the earthquake-induced damage so that the building can be reoccupied quickly. The RSFJ is a friction-based damping device with a special configuration that can produce a flag-shape hysteresis. It provides the required seismic performance regardless of the material used for the main structural components. It can be used in various applications including (but are not limited to) shear walls, tension-compression braces, tension-only braces and moment resisting frames. The philosophy of design is that the inelastic behavior of the structure is provided by the RSFJs and the rest of the structural members remain elastic. This study reports on the latest development of this technology including the analysis and design procedure. RSFJ BRACE AND RSFJ TBRACE As shown in Figure 1, The RSFJ brace includes RSFJs acting in tension and compression (providing energy dissipation and self-centring) attached to a conventional timber/steel section. The brace can be connected to the frame structure using the conventional solutions such as pinned, welded or bolted connections. The telescopic mechanism of the steel sections or tubes provides the required stability.