LATERAL BRACING REQUIREMENTS FOR STEEL STANDARD AND RBS BEAMS SUBJECTED TO CYCLIC LOADING

Abstract

This paper presents an analytical study on the effects of lateral bracing on the rotation capacity of steel beams subjected to cyclic loading. Proposed is the unbraced length required for ensuring sufficient rotation capacity, given as a function of the slenderness ratio about the beam weak axis. Lateral buckling instability and effects of lateral bracing is also examined for beams with reduced beam section (RBS) detail. The RBS beam is not necessarily more susceptible to lateral instability, and it is reasoned from simplified buckling analysis. The unbraced length stipulated for standard beams is found to be applicable to RBS beams.