Advanced modelling of steel structures in fire

Abstract

When a complete structure, as opposed to an isolated structural element, is exposed to an attacked fire, there are a variety of interactions between structural components. Because of these interactions, the behaviour of a steel structure in fire can be drastically different from that of its structural elements in isolation. This research work presents an advanced modelling technique that can be applied to assess the behaviour of a complete frame exposed to compartment fire by establishing a direct relationship between the heating time and the fire resistance of the structure in terms of strength and stability. Verifications studies are carried out on both components and frames over a wide range of parameters. The proposed approach is then used to study the behaviour of a three-dimensional multi-story frame subjected to natural compartment fire. The advantage of the advanced analysis over the conventional design approach is highlighted.