Analytical studies of the behaviour of semi-rigid non-sway frames with tubular columns

Abstract

The analytical studies conducted in this research have contributed to a better understanding of the behaviour of inelastic columns, particularly the development of moment shedding and redistribution of moments at the ultimate load levels. It is been that, as a result of the redistribution of moment, the beams and columns can be treated as isolated members. The beams can be designed as simply supported with a certain degree of end restraint moment to incorporate the effects of semi-rigid connections and the beam-columns as axially loaded. The understanding of the true behaviour of inelastic columns has enabled the development of the simplified design method of semi-rigid non-sway frames. A straightforward method of designing low rise multi-storey buildings for simple, semi-rigid and rigid non-sway frames is known as the αpin approach. The αpin design method has been developed based on the response of loss of stiffness and the phenomenon of moment shedding occurring in the beam-columns.