Analysis and Design of Steel Frames Considering Panel Joint Deformations

Abstract

This paper provides insight to the background of the development and requirements for panel–zone design in the 1986 AISC LRFD specifications. In particular, two criteria for the design of beam–column panel zones are discussed; the first method is based on the von Mises first–yield criterion for the panel–zone web, and the other utilizes the post–yield shear resistance of the panel derived from the flexural resistance of boundary elements surrounding the panel–zone joint. The nonlinear behavior of a moment–resisting frame with panel–zone joints designed according to these two requirements is studied. Lui’s 1985 rigorous second–order elastic– plastic hinge analysis is used to assess the performance of a frame considering panel–zone deformations. An advanced analysis technique based on a notional–load plastic–hinge approach is introduced. This advanced analysis technique is used to evaluate the proper design criteria for panel–zone joints in moment–resisting frames, and to study the influence of panel–zone deformations on the frame’s limit of resistance. From these studies, the effects of the panel–zone deformations on the overall frame resistance can then be summarized and discussed.