Effects of the Actual Joint Behaviour on the Design of Steel Frames

Abstract

In a normal building structure, one can usually identify: Primary structural elements, which constitute the main frame with its joints and the foundation, form the routes by which vertical and horizontal forces are transferred to the ground and provide the frame with resistance and in-plane stability; Secondary structural elements, such as secondary beams, purlins, … transfer loads to the primary structural elements and contribute the possible bracing; Other non directly structural elements, such as sheeting, roofing, cladding, partitions, which transmit the loads to the primary or secondary structural elements.