Rotation and Strength Demands for Simple Connections to Support Large Vertical Deflections

Abstract eng:
Structural collapse may be initiated by numerous hazards, including earthquakes, hurricanes and blasts. Steel gravity framing systems, present in virtually every steel building constructed in the United States, may be particularly susceptible to collapse, especially when a column suffers damage that compromises its ability to carry gravity loads. In order to assess the ability of current gravity framing systems to prevent collapse when column damage occurs, deformation and strength demands on connections must be evaluated in the context of overall system behavior, including the development of large vertical deformations. Once known, means to enhance the threat-independent robustness of gravity framing systems can be developed, preventing future collapses. This paper proceeds a parametric study developed to assess the behavior of typical steel gravity framing systems bearing various layouts, member sizes, and connection configurations under loading consistent with column loss scenarios. Connection rotation and displacement demands are examined for systems utilizing various connection types including i) single plate shear connections ii) bolted web angle connections, and iii) bolted top and seat angle connections, under typical gravity loading to assess the development of large vertical deformations.

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