Steel Structures Research Update: Slotted-Hidden-Gap Connections and Intentional Eccentricity for Steel Brace Members

Research on alternatives for steel brace members and their connections is highlighted. These studies are a collaboration between Dr. Colin Rogers, Professor and Acting Chair at McGill University, and Dr. Robert Tremblay, Professor at Polytechnique Montreal. Research on braces with intentional eccentricity (BIEs) is motivated by improvements in seismic performance compared to concentrically loaded brace (CLB) members. A brief summary of the background, motivation, and research objectives is presented. Also provided are selected highlights of the experimental program and supplementary finite element study. The slotted-hidden-gap (SHG) connection may eliminate the need to reinforce HSS braces at knife-plate connections, but existing design guidance is limited. Through an extensive, integrated program of numerical parametric studies and physical tests, the research team developed SHG connection design and detailing guidelines.