Considerations for Robustness in the Design of Steel and Composite Frame Structures

Abstract

The topic of progressive collapse of structures has increasingly received particular consideration over recent years, with numerous studies of various forms having been seeking to explore the complex mechanics of the problem and define ways of minimising its effects. Through a continuing research program at Imperial College London, considerable advance has been made in understanding the physical features of the progressive collapse response of frame structures, identifying the role of the several different controlling parameters and compiling simplified methods for simulating particular effects. Knowledge of the subject has, therefore, been improved to a considerable extent, that is now possible to make quantitatively justified assessments of structural robustness by specifying the reasons why a structure might be susceptible to progressive collapse as well as to identify potential methods for enhancing performance. The present paper reviews previous developments at Imperial, evaluates information obtained from relevant experimental studies conducted by other research groups and makes an assessment of the progress made both in developing a scientific understanding of the subject and establishing improved ways of tackling the problem in practice.Several factors that should be considered in the robustness design of steel and composite frame structures are defined as well as needs for further research into specific aspects of the problem are identified.

Survey on the Role of Beam-Column Connections in the Progressive Collapse Resistance of Steel Frame Buildings

“…The flexural action effect increases as the beam span decreases and/or the bending moment capacities of the beam-column connections increase. The previous studies also demonstrated how different collapse resistance mechanisms are affected by various structural parameters [64,65]:…”

“…This configuration is probably more appropriate for studying the behavior of the midspan joint rather than the response of the complete double-span beam system. The previous studies also demonstrated how different collapse resistance mechanisms are affected by various structural parameters [64,65]:…”

“…This is essentially equivalent to the absence of connection compression resistance, which means that connections are not able to resist bending moments [64]. The previous studies also demonstrated how different collapse resistance mechanisms are affected by various structural parameters [64,65]:…”

Simulation of the dynamic response of steel moment frames following sudden column loss. Experimental calibration of the numerical model and application

“…Among them the need for improved modelling and design guidance were highlighted and also the necessity of detailed test data. In a review paper, Stylianidis and Nethercot [3] suggest that the development of suitable prediction methods for post-limit stiffness and deformation capacity characteristics should be the aim of future research studies.…”

Study of Dynamic Behavior of a Three Story Model Frame

“…In structural engineering, it relates to the assessment or investigation of structural or material properties or their verification with theoretical calculations. The initial structural testing can be referred to the earliest stages of development of mechanics and experimentation with the literature referring to tests by Galileo and Newton on plane motion and forces, Hooke on elastic properties [1][2][3][4]. However with the availability of several testing facilities alongside the new concepts and methods of structural analysis and design, experiments have played very crucial roles in the development of structural engineering particularly over the last half a century.…”