Numerical studies on composite connections under fire

A three-dimensional finite-element thermal model is proposed to predict the temperature histories of various components of composite connections under fire. The model was carefully calibrated against a series of standard fire tests. Temperature histories both within connections and in composite sections are compared and calibrated. A two-dimensional finite-element mechanical model is adopted and calibrated to predict the structural response of composite connections at elevated temperatures. Both of the models are efficient tools for integrated analysis and design of composite end-plate connections; they are also readily extended to study the structural behavior, under various fire scenarios, of semi-continuous composite beams and floors with different connections to columns with enhanced fire-resistant performance, considering both membrane and catenary floor actions.