Theoretical analysis of the behavior of steel frame infilled with masonry walls by the diagonal strut method

Abstract In the last decades, several studies have been developed regarding structures composed by frames infilled with masonry walls, proving increase of lateral stiffness infill. this work, an analysis was carried out, based on design codes which adopt equivalent diagonal strut method, to compare theoretical results experimental ones tests performed steel concrete block masonry. Two three assessed specify smaller than that measured from testing, as safety measures for design. Regarding ultimate loads, two specifications analyzed yielded similar values critical force, although they pointed out different failure modes. The method has proved be a simple and useful tool considering walls it should used in case reduced horizontal prior initial cracks infill wall.