Progressive collapse analysis of two existing steel buildings using a linear static procedure

Abstract

In this study, the vulnerability of two existing asymmetric steel building frames to Progressive Collapse (PC) is assessed. The buildings have different frame systems, steel sections and number of stories (nine and six). An alternate path method (APM) with a linear static analysis (LS) is carried out according to General Services Administration (GSA) 2003 guidelines. The Demand Capacity Ratio (DCR) of each primary element (beams and columns) is given with its specific details for all frames. The results show that the nine-story building with a dual frame system (moment frame with bracing system) has a lower susceptibility and greater resistance to PC than the six-story building with a simple building frame system (gravity system with bracing system). Implementing built-up box-shaped sections for columns is a better choice than using built-up I-shaped sections because there is no weak axis for the box section.