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Progressive Collapse Analysis
Progressive collapse occurs when a primary
structural element fails, resulting in the collapse of
adjoining structural elements, which in turn causes additional
collapse. The resulting damage is disproportionate to
the original cause. ABS Consulting has completed progressive
collapse evaluations for General Services Administration
buildings in several regions of the United States. The
evaluations and structural retrofits utilize the recently
developed document, Progressive Collapse Analysis and
Design Guidelines for New Federal Office Buildings and
Major Modernization Projects. The Progressive collapse
evaluation guidelines require that, at a minimum, the
building be investigated for the loss of a primary corner
column and a perimeter non-corner column.
Evaluations typically utilize a three-dimensional
finite element model in combination with other analysis
tools to facilitate the structural analysis. Following the
removal of the selected columns, critical structural elements
adjacent to the removed columns are analyzed. The ability
of the remaining structural members to carry the additional
redistributed load without failure provides a means to prevent
progressive collapse. In cases where existing structural
elements are unable to redistribute the additional loads
caused by the removal of the selected columns, retrofit
measures have been developed.
ABS Consulting has been involved in the review
process of the GSA Progressive Collapse Guidelines and has
developed additional analysis procedures to supplement the
current GSA standards.
For more information, contact:
Darrell Barker
Vice President and Business Unit Manager
1-210-495-5195 | dbarker@absconsulting.com
Nathan Gould, D.Sc., P.E., S.E.
Chief of Technology
1-314-994-7007 | ngould@absconsulting.com
Business Development Team:
Mikael Kallros, P.E., S.E.
West Coast and International
1-714-734-4242 | mkallros@absconsulting.com
Mark Mainridge
Rockies
1-303-674-2990 | mmainridge@absconsulting.com
Mark Whitney
South
1-210-495-5195 | mwhitney@absconsulting.com |
