2005 Volume 12 Issue 45 Pages 233-241
Structural performance of beam-to-column connections constructed by mechanical joint with hysteretic dampers has been presented. Wide flange columns and beams are connected by means of double angle and high strength bolts, and buckling restrained braces, referred to as knee brace dampers, are implemented to improve lateral stiffness of the frame as well as to dissipate seismic input energy. The lateral bracing requirements to prevent knee brace dampers from both the buckling and local failure are derived, and are verified by the tests.