Title: Laboratory Investigation of Rigid Frame Failure

Author(s): Richard C. Elstner and Eivind Hognestad

Publication: Journal Proceedings

Volume: 53

Issue: 1

Appears on pages(s): 637-668

Keywords: no keywords

DOI: 10.14359/11540

Date: 1/1/1957

Abstract:
An experimental investigation into the causes of failure in a rigid frame warehouse is reported. The type of diagonal cracking that caused the failure was reproduced in the laboratory; revised frame designs for future construction were tested; and remedial measures were developed to strengthen existing frames by prestressed steel strapping applied externally. Though further studies are needed to clarify completely the fundamental mechanism of failure, it is believed that the failure took place by a combination of diagonal tension due to dead load and axial tension due to shrinkage and temperature change. It is considered highly probable that the type of distress involved can be avoided by sufficient web reinforcement, sufficient extension of longitudinal reinforcement beyond the region of contraflexure, and effective expansion joints.