Numerical Investigation on Progressive Collapse Mitigation of Steel Beam–Column Joint Using Steel Plates

Abstract

This research employed extensive numerical analyses to locate the weak areas and determine the structural issues critical to preventing the spread of collapse. As a result, three specimens were tested using scaled models of strengthened and unstrengthened steel beam–column joint assemblies. The data were utilized to verify numerical models. One simple shear joint from the three experimental assemblies was used as the control specimen (unstrengthened joint). The second was a bolted steel beam–column joint utilized as a reference specimen to reflect the ideal beam–column joint generally employed in intermediate moment-resisting frames in seismic zones worldwide. Similar to the control, the third specimen (strengthened joint) had two side plates welded together to strengthen the connection site. Numerical finite element models were developed using ABAQUS (2020) software to extensively investigate the behavior of steel frame assemblies before and after upgrading. The FEM matrix comprised 17 specimens with varying parameters, including plate thickness, steel grade, a joint between the beam flange-strengthening plates, and a column that was either welded or not welded. The effectiveness of the strengthening techniques was established by comparing the mode of failure and load–displacement characteristics of the investigated specimens. The results indicate that the average increase in peak load due to a change in plate thickness for grades A36 and A572 is approximately 22% and 8%, respectively. Plates made of A572 steel increase peak load by 30%. All strengthened specimens attained catenary action, mitigating the possibility of progressive collapse.