ePrints

Discrete element modelling (DEM) for masonry infilled steel frames with multiple window openings subjected to lateral load variations

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Vasilis SarhosisORCiD

Downloads

• Published version [.pdf]

Licence

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0).

Abstract

Steel framed structures are routinely infilled with masonry or concrete walls. The infill offers in-plane shear resistance that adds to the one from the steel frame. However, the stiffness effect on the entire frame’s response is usually neglected. In recent years, researchers have recognised the lack of in-depth understanding on infilled steel frames; hence specialised computational tools have been developed to provide an easy way of assessing these interactive structural systems and aid practising engineers in evaluating the overall behaviour. A computational model to study the behaviour of masonry infilled steel frames for the non-standard case of variable potential positions of openings and their interaction, when subjected to in-plane monotonic loading, is herein developed. Using the Discrete Element Method (DEM) and the software UDEC, the masonry wall is modelled as an assemblage of distinct deformable blocks while the mortar joints as zero thickness interfaces. The numerical model validated against full scale experimental tests found in the literature and a good agreement obtained. In addition, a series of parametric studies were performed to draw the significance of the size and location of the openings on the lateral load capacity, as well as the stiffness and failure mechanisms of the infilled steel frames. From the results analyses, it was found that the inclusion of multiple openings significantly reduces the strength and stiffness of the system. In particular, placing an opening close to the point of application of the lateral load will result to further reduction of masonry infill’s stiffness.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Sarhosis V, Tsavdaridis KD, Giannopoulos I

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: Open Construction and Building Technology Journal

Year: 2014

Volume: 8

Issue: 1

Pages: 93-103

Print publication date: 01/01/2014

Online publication date: 11/07/2014

Acceptance date: 01/01/2014

Date deposited: 17/02/2016

ISSN (electronic): 1874-8368

Publisher: Bentham open

URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.2174/1874836801408010093

DOI: 10.2174/1874836801408010093

Altmetrics

Share