Behavior of Steel Single-Plate Beam End Framing Connections in Fire

This paper summarizes the results of on-going research on the behavior of simple beam end framing connections in steel buildings subjected to fire. Connections are critical elements in maintaining the integrity of a structure during a fire. Very large force and deformation demands can occur at connections during a fire, and these demands are not well understood. In the US, one of the most common types of simple beam end framing connections is the single plate connection. In this study, the behavior of single plate connections in both the growth and decay phase of a fire using finite element analysis is presented. A refined three-dimensional finite element connection model was developed and used to study connection forces and deformations developed both during the heating and cooling phases of a fire. Residual forces and deformations in the connection after completion of the cooling phase are also examined. Design implications of the analyses are discussed.