Mechanics-Based Approach for Modeling Delamination of Fire Insulation from Steel Structures
Publication: Journal of Engineering Mechanics
Volume 140, Issue 6
Abstract
This paper presents a numerical model for evaluating internal fracture and delamination at the interface of fire insulation and steel surface in structural members. A cohesive zone model in combination with contact condition is employed in a 3D finite-element model to simulate the fire-insulation damage throughout the loading range, from initial loading stage until failure through fracture. The numerical model is validated by comparing model predictions, namely internal fracture and interfacial delamination of insulation, against test data generated at both material and structural levels. The validated model was applied to quantify the effect of critical factors on the extent of delamination between steel and fire insulation. Results from the parametric studies indicate that critical fracture energy at steel–insulation interface, insulation thickness, modulus of elasticity, and internal cohesion of insulation material have significant influence on the spread of delamination at steel–insulation interface. Further, delamination of insulation from steel surface occurs mostly in the plastic hinge zone and specifically in the tensile flange.
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Acknowledgments
This material is based upon work partially supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF) under grant No. CMMI-0757900, American Institute of Steel Construction, (through AISC Faculty Fellowship to Professor Kodur) and Michigan State University (through Strategic Partnership Grant No. SPG 71-4434). Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this paper are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the sponsors.
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Published In
Journal of Engineering Mechanics
Volume 140 • Issue 6 • June 2014
Copyright
© 2014 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Feb 8, 2013
Accepted: Nov 21, 2013
Published online: Nov 23, 2013
Published in print: Jun 1, 2014
Discussion open until: Jun 30, 2014
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