Second-order refined plastic-hinge analysis for frame design. Part II

Abstract

This paper discusses several issues pertinent to the use of advanced analysis for design of two-dimensional steel-frame structures. In particular, the accuracy of the elastic-plastic-hinge method is examined, and its range of application and limitations are identified. An approach called the refined plastic-hinge method, the formulation of which has been presented in a companion paper, is recommended and its design implications are discussed. Case studies are presented to demonstrate the validity of the refined plastic-hinge method in predicting the strength and stability of individual member and overall system strength. Also, the performance of this analysis model is evaluated by comparing the results with those from elastic-plastic-hinge and refined plastic-zone analyses. The goal is to illustrate the qualities and limitations of the plastic-hinge-based analysis methods with regard to their acceptability for use in predicting the limiting strength and behavior of steel members and frames.