Test of Steel Beam‐Columns Subject to Sidesway

Abstract

This paper describes an experimental study to examine the behavior of steel beam‐columns subject to sidesway. A total of 42 beam‐columns are tested under a monotonic loading condition, with the axial force, slenderness, and geometrical and material properties as major test variables. The results, including the force‐versus‐deflection curves, maximum strengths, deflections at critical points, and local and lateral torsional buddings, are presented. Effectiveness of strength and ductility provisions stipulated by AISC's LRFD specification is calibrated against the data obtained. It is found that the experimental strength is never below the design strength and greater by 11% on the average, but that the unbraced length permitted for plastic design can ensure very little ductility (not more than 2.0).