Progressive Collapse analysis of steel structures

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The total UK consumption of constructional steel in 2021 rose by 16.9% to 803,000 tonnes. Progressive collapse, catastrophic event with devastating consequences for human life, economic stability, and societal well-being, has been highlighted in several incidents, including the partial collapse of the Champlain Towers in 2021. The rotational capacity of steel connections is crucial for ensuring the resilience of steel structures against progressive collapse. However, for most steel connections, their rotational capacity remains analytically undetermined, which may lead to the inaccurate estimation of the resistance of structures to progressive collapse.Our project aims to enhance the quantification of the role of connections in the progressive collapse resistance of steel structures through a combination of analytical and numerical investigations. Analytical models will be developed to characterize the moment-rotation curves of various steel connections, taking into account their rotation capacity, material type, and configuration. These curves will then be incorporated into finite element simulations to conduct reliability analyses and assess the resilience of steel frames under different connection scenarios. Additionally, these simulations will explore the influence of connection failure modes on load redistribution.The outcomes of this research are expected to significantly enhance the understanding of the role of connections in the progressive collapse of steel structures. The research will provide comprehensive guidelines for designing connections to optimize progressive collapse resistance. The project will also improve design standards and building codes for progressive collapse prevention in steelstructures.

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Project Summary

The proposed research aims to enhance the understanding and quantification of the role of steel connections in progressive collapse resistance of steel structures. The project will employ a combination of analytical and numerical methods to characterize connection behavior, conduct reliability analyses, and assess the influence of connection failure modes on load redistribution.

Key Strengths

  • Relevance: Progressive collapse is a significant concern in the construction industry, and this research directly addresses a critical gap in understanding.
  • Methodology: The combination of analytical and numerical methods provides a robust approach for investigating connection behavior and its impact on structural resilience.
  • Impact: The research has the potential to significantly improve design standards and building codes, leading to safer and more resilient steel structures.

Potential Areas for Improvement

  • Scope: While the focus on steel connections is important, expanding the research to include other structural components (e.g., beams, columns) could provide a more holistic understanding of progressive collapse.
  • Experimental Validation: While analytical and numerical methods are valuable, experimental validation of the developed models would strengthen the research findings and increase confidence in their application.
  • Case Studies: Applying the research findings to specific case studies or real-world scenarios would demonstrate the practical implications of the work and its potential impact on the industry.

Additional Considerations

  • Collaboration: Collaborating with industry experts, researchers, and regulatory bodies could enhance the project’s impact and ensure that the findings are effectively disseminated and implemented.
  • Data Availability: Access to relevant data, such as historical case studies of progressive collapse and experimental results, is crucial for conducting comprehensive analyses.
  • Ethical Considerations: If the research involves testing or modeling scenarios that could potentially lead to progressive collapse, ethical considerations must be carefully addressed to ensure the safety of individuals and property.

Overall Assessment

The proposed research is timely, relevant, and has the potential to make a significant contribution to the field of structural engineering. By addressing the critical issue of progressive collapse in steel structures, the project can help improve safety and resilience in the built environment. However, to maximize its impact, the researchers should consider the suggested areas for improvement and collaborate with relevant stakeholders.

 

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