Finite Element Analysis of the Application of Synthetic Fiber Ropes to Reduce Blast Response of Frames

Abstract

Blast resistance has recently become increasingly relevant for structural engineers. Blast loads are created by explosive devices that, upon detonation, create pressure loads that are much higher than most that a structure would ever experience. While there are many types of blast loads that are impossible to adequately prepare for, methods are presently being developed to mitigate these loads. This research investigates the possibility of using synthetic fiber ropes as a means of blast resistance. This is the third phase of a multi-stage research endeavor whose goal is to analyze Snapping-Cable Energy Dissipators (SCEDs) for reducing the effects of large-scale lateral loads.

Finite element models of portal frames were developed using the commercial finite element program ABAQUS and dynamic models were run for varying blasts and frame systems. Blast pressures of 100, 2,000, and 4,000 psi were applied to a steel portal frame and comparisons were made between unbraced frames and frames braced with springs of different stiffnesses. Additional tests were run to examine the effects of strain rate dependent yield on the results of the models. Parallel research is being conducted on the specific material behavior of the synthetic fiber ropes so that the models developed for this research can be revised for a more accurate determination of the effects of the ropes on structural systems subjected to blast loads.