Progressive collapse analysis of steel frame structure based on the energy principle

The progressive collapse potential of steel moment framed structures due to abrupt removal of a column is investigated based on the energy principle. Based on the changes of component's internal energy, this paper analyzes structural member's sensitivity to abrupt removal of a column to determine a sub-structure resisting progressive collapse. An energy-based structural damage index is defined to judge whether progressive collapse occurs in a structure. Then, a simplified beam damage model is proposed to analyze the energies absorbed and dissipated by structural beams at large deflections, and a simplified modified plastic hinges model is developed to consider catenary action in beams. In addition, the correlation between bending moment and axial force in a beam during the whole deformation development process is analyzed and modified, which shows good agreement with the experimental results.