Behavior of a RC infilled frame applying the classic equivalent strut macro-model

Resumo

There is knowledge of contribution to the gain of stiffness, stress changing in structural elements and
dynamic response provided by infill walls. However it is unusual to consider the masonry in frame structures
because of the complex behavior of the panel-frame and the dependence of mechanical and geometric variables
of the structure and masonry. A simple macro-model to simulate the contribution of the infill walls is the
replacement by equivalent single struts. The most methods are applicable to particular cases. The adjustment for
multi-storey buildings shall be at the charge structural designer. The purpose of this paper is to verify the lateral
stiffness and dynamic response via modal analysis of a three-story reinforced concrete frame. Two classic
macro-models are used which are mentioned by most standards that approach the theme. In addition to these
models, a macro-model with calibrated lateral stiffness was used. Some mass arrangements between masonry
and boundary beams are simulated, in order to obtain closer frequencies to the numerical model more refined.
The results are compared with the more refined plane model using FEM, including the contact effect between
masonry and the frame.