3D finite element analysis of the whole-building behavior of tall building in fire

Abstract

In this paper, a methodology to simulate the whole-building behaviour of the tall building under fire is developed by the author using a 3-D nonlinear finite element method. The mechanical and thermal material nonlinearities of the structural members, such as the structural steel members, concrete slabs and reinforcing bars were included in the model. In order to closely simulate the real condition under the conventional fire incident, in the simulation, the fire temperature was applied on level 9, 10 and 11. Then, a numerical investigation on the whole-building response of the building in fire was made. The temperature distribution of the floor slabs, steel beams and columns were predicted. In addition, the behaviours of the structural members under fire such as beam force, column force and deflections were also investigated.