Cyclic Web Buckling Control for Shear Link Beams

Abstract
Shear links employed in Eccentrically Braced Frames (EBFs) must be appropriately stiffened in order to prevent premature web buckling and retain energy dissipation capability for subsequent cyclic loading. Criteria for web stiffener spacing as a function of inelastic cyclic shear link deformation is proposed based on the secant modulus approach applied to 30 tested links. The applications of these criteria to EBF ultimate state design are briefly examined.