Finite Element Evaluation of Frames with Concrete-Confined Steel Composite Columns: Effects of Concrete Strength and Steel Yield Stress
Moein Shirdel
Abstract:
This study investigates the structural response of frames incorporating concrete-confined steel composite columns through a nonlinear three-dimensional finite element analysis. The inelastic behavior of concrete, steel sections, longitudinal and transverse reinforcements, as well as the confinement effects provided by concrete encasement, are modeled using ABAQUS. Three frame configurations—featuring SRC beams, steel section beams, and reinforced concrete beams—are analyzed to evaluate the influence of concrete compressive strength and steel yield stress on global frame behavior and load-carrying capacity. The numerical results reveal that increasing both concrete strength and steel yield stress enhances frame performance and strength. The strengthening effect of concrete compressive strength is more significant in frames with SRC beams, while the improvement due to higher steel yield stress is more pronounced in frames with steel beams. For frames equipped with reinforced concrete beams, both parameters contribute almost equally to the enhancement of structural behavior.
Keywords:
Composite Column, Frame, Nonlinear Analysis, Confinement