Performance based design approach for evaluating fire resistance of restrained steel beams

In this paper, a performance based approach is proposed for fire resistance assessment of simply supported or restrained steel beams. The approach is based on equilibrium and compatibility principles and evaluates fire resistance by applying strength and deflection limiting criteria. The proposed approach takes into consideration various factors governing fire response, including fire scenario, end restraints, connection configuration (location of axial restraint force), thermal gradient, load level, beam geometry, and failure criteria. The validity of the proposed approach is established by comparing predictions from the proposed approach with results obtained through rigorous finite element analysis. The applicability of the proposed approach to practical design situations is illustrated through a numerical example.