Simplified Methods for Progressive Collapse Assessment of Frame Structures
Publication: Journal of Structural Engineering
Volume 147, Issue 11
Abstract
The Imperial College Robustness Assessment Framework is a methodology—based upon application of the alternate load path concept—for quantitatively comparing the performance of different structural arrangements to a threat-independent triggering event (removal of a single column) with the potential to induce a progressive collapse of the structure. Initially, it depended upon the numerical analysis of a representative beam. More recently, the application of more basic structural mechanics has been found to yield almost identical results at a fraction of the cost, thereby making use of the approach by nonspecialists far simpler. Although this study was mainly restricted to the coverage of steel and composite frame structures, the principles apply to any construction type. Important aspects of these simplifications, including demonstrating both the accuracy and rigor of the resulting approach and the ease with which many variants of a proposed scheme may be compared in such a way that the precise influence of key variables may readily be assessed, are collected together herein.
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Data Availability Statement
Data and models generated or used during the study are available from the corresponding author by request.
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Published In
Journal of Structural Engineering
Volume 147 • Issue 11 • November 2021
Copyright
© 2021 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Mar 22, 2021
Accepted: Jul 22, 2021
Published online: Aug 28, 2021
Published in print: Nov 1, 2021
Discussion open until: Jan 28, 2022
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