Numerical experimental analysis of a braced steel frame subjected to fire following earthquake

Many historical events have shown that, after an earthquake, fire may be triggered by seismic-induced rupture of gas piping, failure of electrical systems, etc. The current engineering design methods still ignores many aspects of multi-hazard and in particular fire following earthquake (FFE) analysis. In this respect, the aim of this paper is to study the behaviour of a braced steel frame subjected to seismic-induced fire. In particular, FFE numerical analyses were conducted on a four-storey three-bay braced steel frame with concentric bracings. The results of the numerical analyses served to design the FFE tests performed on unprotected and protected columns belonging to the bracing system. The fire tests after the seismic event were carried out by considering the effects of the surrounding seismically damaged structure. Results of the FFE tests on unprotected columns are reported along with the numerical model calibration.