Shear connection modelling for column removal analysis

Although methods for modelling steel shear connections under column removal scenarios are available in widely-used design guidelines, they tend to be based on earthquake engineering research rather than research examining scenarios relevant to progressive collapse. Even where these have been adapted explicitly for this new purpose, they take a form that does not account for the true connection behaviour under this unique loading regime. This paper describes an accurate mechanical model that has been developed based on observations from a comprehensive testing programme designed specifically to study the behaviour of steel shear connections under column removal scenarios. The model is used to assess the influences of key parameters and develop a simple single-spring model practical for use in full-building collapse analyses. •Comprehensive research on progressive collapse behaviour of steel shear connections.•New mechanical component model for shear connections is developed and validated.•Model simulates vertical and horizontal load development following column removal.•Parametric study reveals the influences of key variables on connection performance.•Simple bilinear single-spring model is accurate and practical for full-building analyses.