Abstract:
The primary motivation for writing this book is the causes of structural failures—what went wrong—during the earthquakes that hit the western states
in the last decades.
In view of the relatively large number of steel moment-resisting frames
damaged during the Northridge earthquake, the book expands on the evaluation and performance of structures of this type. The pre- and post-Northridge
experimental research and new design strategies to improve moment connections for new buildings are also discussed, keeping in mind basic building
code concepts to demonstrate the application of general strength-level load
combinations.
Topics relevant to seismic design in other areas of engineering, such as
concrete, masonry, and wood-framed buildings, are also included. An attempt
has been made to maintain a practical approach. In lieu of problem-solving,
single design issues, the book walks the reader through step-by-step design
of actual projects in moderate-to-high seismicity areas in compliance with
building regulations.
Chapter 12 introduces a new method of dynamic analysis and discusses
the causes of joint failure in steel design. Subjects like matrices, differential
equations, numerical analysis, and engineering applications are presented for
completeness and ready reference for the reader.
It is hoped that the book will help practicing engineers not yet fully familiar
with seismic design and graduating
