RAM structural engineering software available for Star Seismic

Star Seismic buckling restrained braces are now available in the RAM Structural System. This feature allows the engineer to conveniently assign Star Seismic shapes to buckling restrained braces in the RAM Structural System model.

For engineering assistance on BRBF project modeling, contact Star Seismic.

For more information on the benefits of RAM Structural Systems, visit www.bentley.com.

A description of RAM Structural System V8i 14.02 enhancements can be found at: BE Communities

U.S. Air Force protected by Star Seismic buckling restrained braces

Location: Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska
Architect: Kumin Associates, Inc.
Structural Engineer: Schneider & Associates, Inc.
General Contractor: Davis Constructors and Engineers, Inc.
Project Start Date: December 2010

Project Overview
South-central Alaska’s extreme seismic environment drove the selection of a buckling restrained brace (BRB) system [the 1964 Anchorage earthquake was the largest ever recorded in North America, M9.2, lasting 5 minutes].

During the design process, it was clear that BRB’s would be the ideal bracing system. The floor plan was rigidly defined by the RFP, so the flexibility of a bracing configuration with BRB’s was a valuable asset.

Since buckling restrained braces can be used in a single diagonal configuration, the number of braces was significantly reduced as compared to a conventional SCBF system. BRB’s are an ideal system for long-duration events, since the ductility is maintained over repeated loading cycles. This toughness is especially good for a building that is to enclose hundreds of millions of dollars worth of stealth fighter aircraft.

LA Live Hotel & Residences uses 33’ long 2200 KIP buckling restrained brace as outrigger – Modern Steel Construction

Innovative design, high-level collaboration

Star Seismic buckling restrained braces (BRB) were used for added stability in the steel plate shear wall system. By using a Star Seismic BRB outrigger system, efficient load distribution was achieved and drift was reduced.

Owner: AEG Worldwide
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Architect: Gensler
Structural Engineer: Nabih Youssef Associates
General Contractor: Webcor Builders
Steel Fabricator and Erector: Herrick Steel Corporation
Steel Detailer: Steel Systems Engineering
Project Star Date: November 2007
Project opening: February 2010 (Projected)