Experimental dynamic collapse response of post-and-beam mass timber frames under a sudden column removal scenario

Abstract In this study, an experimental program was carried out to investigate the dynamic behaviour of post-and-beam mass timber frames, manufactured from LVL structural products, under a sudden column removal scenario. Twenty-five free-fall and two additional static tests were performed on scaled-down frames assembled with three beam-to-column connection types, referred as “Double-beam”, “Megant type” “T-section”, currently used in buildings. The responses, failure modes increase factors (DIF) are presented discussed. For connections exhibiting brittle timber, cracks found develop earlier than tests, resulting large DIF values over 2.0. However, for displaying ductile modes, design value 1.5 proposed literature be reasonable. Pseudo-static responses calculated inconsistent predicting responses. This paper presents essential understanding lay foundation future further studies aiming at investigating entire buildings with, e.g. cross laminated (CLT) floors.