Structural performance of composite double beam system

Abstract

A new composite structural system that is able to enhance constructability and is suitable for realization of long-span structures was developed. Steel beams, steel reinforced concrete columns, reinforced concrete drop panels, and slabs are placed in the system. To determine the structural performance of the system, the gravity and lateral load resisting properties of the system were investigated. It was found that the presence of a reinforced concrete drop panel at the top of a column brings about a reduction of the negative moment at the top of the column. Also, it was observed that a reinforced concrete drop panel on the top of the column significantly affected the deflection-control of the beam. In a lateral load resisting test, cracks in slabs of the new structural system disperse in a better manner than is the case for crack patterns in the conventional composite system. Also, via push-over analysis using a package of structural analysis software, it was found that the developed structural system is effective in the prevention of stress concentration in the column zone.