Moment-Resisting Frame

Definition

A moment-resisting frame is a structural system that provides stability and strength by allowing beams and columns to resist bending moments and lateral forces without the need for additional bracing. This type of frame is designed to maintain its shape and integrity under loads, making it ideal for buildings that experience dynamic forces like wind or earthquakes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Moment-resisting frames are crucial in high-rise buildings where lateral stability is essential due to their height.
2. These frames allow for open floor plans since they reduce the need for interior walls or bracing, promoting flexibility in building design.
3. The design of moment-resisting frames involves careful consideration of the connections, which must be able to handle both shear and moment forces effectively.
4. In seismic design, moment-resisting frames are often preferred because they can absorb and dissipate energy during an earthquake, minimizing structural damage.
5. The performance of moment-resisting frames can be evaluated using various analysis methods, including linear static analysis and nonlinear dynamic analysis.

Review Questions

• How do moment-resisting frames provide stability in structures subjected to lateral loads?
  • Moment-resisting frames provide stability by allowing the connections between beams and columns to resist bending moments as well as shear forces. This capability enables the frame to maintain its shape under lateral loads, such as those caused by wind or earthquakes. As a result, these frames help distribute forces throughout the structure and prevent excessive deformation or failure during such events.
• Compare moment-resisting frames with shear walls in terms of their roles in structural stability.
  • Moment-resisting frames rely on rigid connections between beams and columns to resist bending and lateral forces, allowing for more open floor plans. Shear walls, on the other hand, are vertical elements specifically designed to resist lateral loads through shear. While moment-resisting frames provide flexibility in design, shear walls add significant strength and stiffness to a structure. In many designs, both systems are used together to achieve optimal stability and performance.
• Evaluate the importance of moment-resisting frames in modern building designs, especially regarding sustainability and energy efficiency.
  • Moment-resisting frames play a critical role in modern building designs by allowing architects to create flexible and open spaces while maintaining structural integrity. This adaptability supports sustainable design principles by enabling the use of natural light and reducing reliance on artificial lighting. Additionally, their ability to withstand dynamic loads reduces potential damage during seismic events, contributing to overall energy efficiency by minimizing repair costs and resource use after disasters. The integration of moment-resisting frames into green building practices exemplifies a commitment to both safety and environmental stewardship.

Related terms

Rigid Connection: A connection that allows for the transfer of bending moments between members, providing greater stability and resistance to deformation.

Shear Wall: A vertical structural element that resists lateral forces, often used in conjunction with moment-resisting frames to enhance the overall stability of a building.

Lateral Load: Forces that act parallel to the ground, such as wind or seismic forces, which need to be accounted for in the design of structures.