Assessment of progressive collapse-resisting capacity of steel moment frames

In this study the progressive collapse-resisting capacity of steel moment resisting frames was investigated using alternate path methods recommended in the GSA and DoD guidelines. The linear static and nonlinear dynamic analysis procedures were carried out for comparison. It was observed that, compared with the linear analysis results, the nonlinear dynamic analysis provided larger structural responses and the results varied more significantly depending on the variables such as applied load, location of column removal, or number of building story. However the linear procedure provided more conservative decision for progressive collapse potential of model structures. As the nonlinear dynamic analysis for progressive collapse analysis does not require modeling of complicated hysteretic behavior, it may be used as more precise and practical tool for evaluation of progressive collapse potential of building structures. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.