Steel moment-resisting frame

Definition

A steel moment-resisting frame is a structural system that uses beams and columns to resist lateral forces, such as those caused by earthquakes, through the rigidity of its connections. This type of frame allows buildings to flex and absorb seismic energy without collapsing, making it essential for earthquake-resistant design. The connections in these frames are designed to withstand significant bending moments, which helps maintain the integrity of the structure during seismic events.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Steel moment-resisting frames are specifically designed to handle large lateral loads, making them ideal for regions prone to earthquakes.
2. The design of the connections in moment-resisting frames is crucial because they need to be able to transfer bending moments effectively without failing.
3. These frames can be used in multi-story buildings, providing both vertical support and lateral stability under seismic forces.
4. Moment-resisting frames can either be rigidly connected or have some degree of flexibility, depending on the design requirements and seismic conditions.
5. Regular inspection and maintenance of the joints and connections in these frames are essential for ensuring long-term performance during seismic events.

Review Questions

• How do steel moment-resisting frames contribute to the overall stability of a building during an earthquake?
  • Steel moment-resisting frames provide stability by allowing buildings to flex and absorb seismic forces without collapsing. The rigid connections between beams and columns resist bending moments, which helps maintain the shape and integrity of the structure during shaking. This flexibility is essential for preventing catastrophic failure in earthquake-prone areas.
• Discuss the importance of connection design in steel moment-resisting frames and how it impacts their performance under seismic loads.
  • Connection design in steel moment-resisting frames is critical because these connections must withstand significant bending moments during an earthquake. Properly designed connections ensure that the frame can effectively transfer forces between beams and columns, maintaining structural integrity. A failure in any connection could lead to partial or complete collapse, highlighting the need for meticulous engineering in these areas.
• Evaluate the implications of using steel moment-resisting frames in high-rise buildings located in seismically active regions.
  • Using steel moment-resisting frames in high-rise buildings in seismically active regions allows for greater resistance to lateral forces while maximizing usable space within the structure. This system provides both strength and flexibility, crucial for absorbing seismic energy. However, engineers must carefully consider factors like material properties, joint detailing, and overall architectural design to ensure that these structures can withstand severe earthquakes without sustaining significant damage or endangering occupants.

Related terms

Lateral Forces: Forces that act horizontally on a structure, typically due to wind or seismic activity, requiring specialized design considerations.

Bending Moment: The internal moment that causes a structural element to bend, arising from loads applied to it, important in assessing the strength of connections.

Seismic Design Categories: Classification systems that determine the level of seismic design required for buildings based on their location and occupancy.