Numerical analysis of the behaviour of a concrete floor in a steel-framed structure subject to a traveling fire

Abstract

This paper presents a finite element model for a multi-story structure subjected to traveling fire. The structure selected has been previously investigated in experimental studies. The study investigates the effect of the number and positions of the panels exposed to fire on the fire behavior of the composite floor in the structure. Parameter analyses were conducted, including floor thickness, reinforcement arrangement, loads, position and number of panels exposed to fire, and traveling fire. The study shows that there are three different patterns of membrane action: ring type, diagonal U type, and opposite side U type. The moment and axial force of the steel beam near the fired panel increase gradually, while the internal force change of the steel beam at a distance from the panel exposed to fire is relatively small. The axial force of the side and corner columns changed more significantly compared to the axial force of the middle column. Furthermore, the deflection, fire resistance, failure mode, and membrane action of the floors depend primarily on the position of the panels exposed to fire, the traveling fire, and the interaction among members.