The Development of a Steel Fuse Coupling Beam for Coupled Core Wall Systems

Coupled core wall systems are being used in seismically active areas worldwide as an effective type of structural system for resisting earthquake demands. At the University of Cincinnati, the design evolution of an innovative type of steel coupling beam was investigated that provides a significant advantage for structures utilizing linked concrete walls. The concept of post-event reparability can be realized through the use of a steel coupling beam in which a weak-link, or ‘fuse’ section is induced at the center of the clear span of the beam. During extreme seismic events on a fused coupled core wall system, all inelastic response is focused onto the weak link while the elastic integrity of the surrounding embedded beams and walls is ensured by careful detailing. A code-compliant design procedure has been established that preserves the intended performance. Results and conclusions from the analytical modeling of a 20-story structure indicate that steel fuse coupling beams perform favorably in a seismic event. Data from experimental tests demonstrate the adequacy of the design procedure and show the performance under cyclic load demands.