Theses supervised by Mürüde Çelikağ
18 theses · Eastern Mediterranean University
Assessment of Two Sets Intensity Measures of Ground Motion with Seismic Damage Indices of Masonry-infilled Steel Frames
The objective of this study is to investigate the nonlinear behavior of two dimensional 3, 5, 8 and 12 story steel frames with and without masonry infill considering the intensity measure (IMs) parameters of near-fault ground motions and dynamic Soil-Structure Interaction (SSI).A single story and single bay steel frame numerical model was validated by using two software, SAP2000 and OpenSees and comparing the structural periods obtained. Then the validation of OpenSees numerical model against the experimental results from literature was done. This was followed by using the validated models to create the rest of the numerical models. Aspect ratio of the superstructure and non-dimensional frequency are selected as the main parameters for the soil-structure system. Two sets of earthquake ground motions, ordinary seismic records (OSR) and pulse-like seismic records (PLSR) were used for the nonlinear dynamic analysis. Seismic performance was evaluated using the general indicators of damage (modified Park-Ang index), maximum inter-story drift ratio (MIDR) and roof drift ratio (RDR). The correlation between the multiple IMs with and without pulse-like seismic excitation and the damage indices of 3 forms of steel moment frames; bare, partially and fully infilled was determined using the Spearman correlation coefficient. Also, a significant part of correlation between the damage criteria and IMs was assessed. It was concluded that the spectral acceleration (Sa) and velocity (Sv) of the structures period strongly correlated with MIDR and RDR and that velocity correlated with the seismic parameters. The correlations for PLSR and OSR differed for each case and IMs with ground motion can help predict the parameters for building failure in various systems. In most ground motion parameters, the presence of masonry-infilled walls decreased the correlation coefficient for a fully infilled frame when compared to a bare frame. It should be noted that GSDI has high correlation with MIDR than with RDR. The correlation coefficients with the effect of the SSI were reduced by a range of about 10-20% for a model frame with flexible base when compared with the same model with a fixed base. Therefore, the use of PLSR is important when SSI is considered, since it generally negatively effects the correlation of damage indexes and causes considerable change in the behavior of partially infilled and fully infilled frames with respect to bare frames and high rise with respect to low rise frames. Keywords: Intensity measures, Ordinary records, Pulse-like records, Damage index, Steel frame with masonry infill, Soil-structure interaction
Health and Safety in Construction Industry of Lebanon
A labourer at a construction site is bound to have certain rights, such as, right to return home safe and sound and to be taught how to maintain his and his colleague’s safety against potential hazards and risks associated with his position. Thus, enforcement of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) standards at workplace is essential to prevent the work accidents and harm to labourers. The essence of the requirements and principles of OHS generally involves showing gratitude and respect towards the employee as a human being since he plays a very important role in achieving economical and communal development. The objective of this study is to investigate the status of OHS and its standards in Lebanon. In order to achieve this objective, three different surveys are prepared with the aim of getting sufficient OHS related information from public, employers and labourers. Construction sites, International Labour Organization, engineering union and construction workers union are visited to investigate the matters relating to OHS through meetings with those in charge. In addition, the laws and by-laws related to the OHS are explored and listed. The gathered information is analyzed to interpret the status of OHS in Lebanon. Finally, recommendations towards establishing and enforcing relevant rules to reduce and/or prevent the number of fatalities and injuries among labourers at construction sites, are presented. Keyword: Occupational health and safety in Lebanon, Lebanon Construction Industry, workers rights, standards, accident prevention.
Behavior of Steel Braced Frame Structures by using Pushover and Response Spectrum Analysis
Bracing systems are one of the efficient methods used for buildings to resist lateral loads. Steel structures need to be strong and at the same time have adequate ductility against various loading conditions. The objective of this study was to investigate the behavior of the steel concentric and eccentric braced frames by using pushover and response spectrum analysis. Diagonal-shape, inverted chevron (Λ-shape) are the types concentric braced systems and diagonal and inverted chevron (Λ-shape) are the types of and eccentric bracing systems considered for the study, respectively. 4- and 12-story high buildings, H and square plan shape with 5x5 symmetric number of bays were used to design with relevant Eurocodes and carry out performance analysis. Pushover analysis results show that the collapsed plastic hinges mainly occurred in the buildings with eccentric diagonal bracing systems with low target displacements. Response spectrum analysis results show that buildings with diagonal concentric bracing systems achieved the lowest story displacement and furthermore it was the only braced system that met the displacement criteria. Comparing the results of story drift majority of the investigated cases with diagonal braced frame achieved the lowest drift value, except for 4-stroy H plan. The economical comparison between the selected braced frames has been done by comparing the weight of structure for all analyzed conditions. It was found that eccentric inverted chevron (Λ-shape) achieved the lowest structural weight. Comparing only the base shear for the pushover and response spectrum analysis it was found that the former had higher base shear than the latter in both x- and y-directions for all conditions, except for 4-story square plan, when response spectrum analysis achieved larger base shear than the pushover analysis.
Linear and Non-Linear Static Progressive Collapse Analysis of Steel Framed Buildings with I-Beams and Truss Beams
Progressive collapse is the collapse of a considerably large part of a structure as a result of failure of its relatively small part. After the progressive collapse (PC) of the Ronan Point apartment tower in England in 1968, prevention of progressive collapse became one of the challenges of structural engineers. Since then, researchers carried out many studies on progressive collapse. In addition, General Services Administration (GSA), Department of Defense (DoD), and Unified Facilities Criteria (UFC) developed guidelines for assessing and preventing progressive collapse. Furthermore, NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) has published a list of potential load hazards that might generate progressive collapse. This study used GSA guidelines to investigate the progressive collapse potential of an eight story steel framed building by using I-beams and trusses as floor beams. Linear and nonlinear static analysis were used to assess the potential of PC by using the general purpose computional analysis program ETABS. Structural members PC potential is assessed according to Demand Capacity Ratio (DCR) for linear static analysis and rotation for nonlinear static analysis. The results show that, after removing the columns for linear static analysis, floors with truss beams had DCR values less than the floor with I-beams. The results of nonlinear static analysis indicate that the floors with I-beams had greater rotation values than the floors with truss beams. As part of Alternative Path Method, new bracings introduced in the bay adjacent to the removed column to rehabilitate the buildings.
Seismic Behavior of Steel Framed Structures with Infill Walls - Analytical Study
The objective of this numerical study was the investigation of the seismic behavior of steel framed structures with infill walls. The equivalent diagonal struts and shear spring model based finite element software SeismoStruct was employed for this purpose. The experimental test setup and the data obtained from the experiments were used to verify the two basic analytical models by using SeismoStruct software. Then, six new groups of frame models were formed by using the validated simple frame structures. The number of bays and stories were increased, and infill walls were introduced in alternative steel frames. The global structural performance parameters of top displacement, base shear, fundamental time period, out-of-plane displacement and local parameters of inter-story drift ratio and member deformation capacities were obtained for all models. These parameters were compared in each group of models to detect symmetry/asymmetry and vertical discontinuity based effects due to presence or absence of infill walls. From this study, it is concluded that infill walls can increase strength and stiffness of the systems depending on the location of them. Also, the orientation of vertical frame members have significant advantages such as decreased fundamental time period, zero-out-of-plane displacement for minor axis frame models.
Structural Evaluation of Tied-Arch and Truss Footbridges through a Case Study
Footbridges are usually slender structures with comparatively light load bearing requirements. These bridges are constructed over busy roads or other obstacles to provide a safe and easy passage for pedestrians and improve access. Footbridges are often less costly when compared to other bridges and structures. However, their aesthetics, appearance and practicability are also of high importance. The structure’s slenderness offer opportunities for engineering innovation, but these characteristics make designers pay more attention to issues, such as, wind, impact and collision loads. The main objective of this thesis is to propose some design alternatives for a footbridge crossing over Nicosia-Famagusta main road between the North and South Campuses of Eastern Mediterranean University. In this regard, two types of footbridges, tied-arch and truss bridges, with seven alternatives including the original bridge are investigated from four viewpoints; structural behavior, material usage, cost and aesthetics. Design and loading are according to AASHTO guidelines. Modeling and analyses of the structures are carried out by using the general purpose analyses and design program SAP2000, version 16.0.0 Ultimate. The footbridges studied in this research are to be constructed over a busy road, thus, the vulnerability of each alternative to impact and collision loads were investigated. For this purpose, progressive collapse analysis is carried out to study the behavior of design alternatives in case of damage to pier columns. The results showed that single span bridges have higher performances, and among them, arch type ones represent less deflection and lower compressive stress. In order to determine the bridge with the highest performance each of the investigated characteristics (structural behavior, material usage, cost and aesthetics) were first of all individually compared and then they were compared with each other. The results revealed that single span arch bridge that is designed to be constructed by using simple sections appear to be the best and most appropriate alternative if all parameters receive equal importance weights. However, assigning importance weights to the structural behavior, material usage, and cost, which are as three times as the one allotted to the aesthetics, resulted in selection of single span truss bridge as the most suitable option. Keywords: Footbridges, pedestrian bridges, structural behavior, progressive collapse analysis.
Green Building Concept of Residential Housing in Lebanon
Recent years has seen a gradual increase of interest in green buildings due to their many advantages and positive effect on the environment, economy and our lifestyle. Hence, for achieving more benefits from green buildings, there is more research into this subject in order to further improve this concept. In addition to incentives provided for building green in developed countries like United States and United Kingdom, with the support of non-government organizations assessments based on green certification programs, such as, BREEAM and LEED has been established. On the other hand, countries like Lebanon are still unable to implement green buildings in an efficient manner. The purpose of this study is to discuss the importance of green building concepts for residential buildings and investigate the situation in Lebanon. For this reason, a survey was conducted targeting the Lebanese general public and professionals for better understanding of their knowledge and awareness regarding green buildings. The residential building Factory 4376 is located near the Lebanese capital city of Beirut. It is the case study that was evaluated by using the BREEAM certification categories and as a result it was promoted to BREEAM "GOOD" classification, ranging from 45% to 55%. The survey results are presented through which the problems affecting the development of green buildings in Lebanon are identified. Thus, it is expected that this study will contribute towards understanding matters relating to sustainable development in general and green residential buildings in particular. Keywords: green building in Lebanon, BREEAM, LEED, green products, Lebanese market.
Effect of Building Height on the Seismic Behavior of Steel Framed Structures
Northridge-USA and Kobe-Japan earthquakes in mid 1990s caused numerous structural damages to 3, 6 and 12 story buildings, in relation to structural design and framing type. Hence, this research was aimed at studying the effect of structural framing type and building height on seismic behavior of steel structures. Equivalent Static Analysis (ESA) were carried out using ETABS software to analyze 6, 12 and 20 story Moment Resisting Frame (MRF) and Concentric Braced Frame (CBF) buildings, with regular and irregular plan and elevations. Eurocodes 3 and 8 were used for the design of 77 different building models considering soil and earthquake parameters for Lebanon. In addition selective models of both frame types were also analyzed using Response Spectrum (RS) and Nonlinear Static Pushover Analysis (NSPA). Considering the lateral displacements obtained it was found that generally up to story 15 moment frames have more displacements than braced frames with similar structure. However, for taller structures the situation was reversed and braced frames achieved more displacements than moment frames. Introducing belts at top and middle or top story only of 20 story braced framed structure generally reduced its lateral displacement in both directions except in y-direction only up to 14 floors. Pushover analysis results showed that moment framed 6 and 12 story regular buildings performed better than similar braced frame ones, and the case was vice versa for 20 story regular buildings. Keywords: Earthquake, Moment Resisting Frame, Concentric Braced Frame, Irregularity, Displacement, Height Effect, Equivalent Static, Response Spectrum, Nonlinear Static Pushover.
Effect of Infill Wall on the Seismic Behaviour of Steel Framed Structures
Most of the structural steel frame design is carried out with the assumption that the frame is bare and ignores the possible contribution of partition wall to the lateral load resisting system. Whilst presence of partition walls can strengthen the frame against lateral loads on the other hand it can make the frame stiff, which may reduce its ductility. This may be more important for the braced frames where bracings are designed to react freely to lateral loads and hence presence of partition walls may hinder this action. There is very limited work in the literature on this important subject. This thesis presents an experimental study on the behaviour of braced and moment frames with and without infill walls when subject to lateral loads. For this purpose, eight half-scale frame specimens were constructed by using two steel columns and one beam members. Equal leg angles were used as cross bracing for the braced frames only. To ascertain the impact of each specification, global drift proportions are taken into account for each test frame and are compared with each other. Test results showed that infill walls built of masonry blocks increase the rigidness of structural frames, resist lateral loads and limit frame deflections. Experimental test results reveal that the test frames having infilled walls had less damage than either the moment frame or braced frame without infill walls.This attributed to the increased stiffness of frames with infill walls. Keywords: Lateral loads; Infill partition wall; Braced steel frame; Cross Bracing systems; Moment frame
Comparison of the Behavior of Steel Structures with Concentric and Eccentric Bracing Systems
Over the years bracings were used as part of an effective lateral load resisting system to enhance stiffness and reduce deformation. Structures need to be strong and at the same time ductile. Besides they also need to be economical and constractable. In recent years with increased concerns about seismic activities more research had been carried out to find the response of structures to seismic forces. The main objective of this study is to investigate the behavior of Concentric and Eccentric Braced (CBF, EBF) steel frames by using linear dynamic, nonlinear time history and nonlinear static pushover analysis. Hence it was decide to investigate the two basic types of bracing systems, X-shape and Λ-shape. Earthquake impact on structure depend on many factors include structures height, number of story, each story height and number of bays on plan. For this reason design and performance analyses were carried out on 4, 8 and 12 story buildings with 3x3 symmetric and 3x5 asymmetric bays on plan. According to ASCE7-10, the value of the deflection amplification factor coefficient (cd) depends on the type of bracing. This study indicated that it also depends on the number of floors but it is independent from number of bays. In all structures, the initial stiffness of CBF was more than that of EBF. Pushover graphs show that EBF braces have more ductility than CBF. Target shift is larger in both directions for EBF when compared to those of CBF. On the other hand, for 3x3 bays increase in the number of floors lead to increase in the target shift for both CBF and EBF. Keywords: Eccentric Brace Frame, Concentric Brace Frame, Linear dynamic analysis, Nonlinear Dynamic Time History Analysis, Pushover Analysis
Experimental Moment-Rotation Behavior of Semi-Rigid Beam-to-Column Connections
An experimental research was accomplished to examine the rotational capability of extended end-plate connections and stiffened fin plate connections. Four extended end plates and four stiffened fin plate connections configurations were tested under monotonic loading histories suggested by SAC. In addition, the connections suitability for use in seismic resisting moment frames (SRMF) were examined for ductility to find that all the connections achieved more than 0.03 rad rotation which is minimum rotation capacity required by Eurocode for high ductility class structures. Experimental results for maximum moment resisted by the connections were compared with analytical predictions. All the tested connections except one, F200x200, achieved higher moments than the predicted moments. The experimental results demonstrated that, the extended end plate moment connections can be detailed and designed by using the web plates and stiffeners in certain locations so as to be reliable for use in seismic regions. However, the stiffened fin plate connections have very high rotational capacity with very low moment capacities unless three or more bolts in a row is used. Keywords: Connection tests, Moment-rotation curves, Moment frame, Extended end plate, Stiffened Fin plate, Monotonic loading.
Linear Static and Nonlinear Dynamic Analyses on Collapse Behaviors of Staggered-Truss Systems
The thesis investigates the linear and nonlinear collapse mechanism in Staggered Truss Systems using two computational programs (SAP2000 and ABAQUS finite element software). The thesis particularly focuses on the understanding and modelling of the collapse mechanisms of Staggered Truss Systems when a critical column was removed from the structure. AISC-LRFD steel structures design code and AISC 14 guidelines for staggered truss systems were used to design a full 3-D 10-story model by SAP 2000. The structure was built with Staggered Truss System (STS) in transvers direction and Moment Resistance Frame (MRF) in longitudinal direction. Linear Static and Nonlinear Dynamic Time-History analyses were then performed in accordance with UFC 2013 and GSA 2013 codes to determine the collapse potential in the existing model following removal of a load bearing element from different locations. When the results of Linear Static and Nonlinear Dynamic time-history analyses were studied in detail, it was observed that the nonlinear dynamic analysis not only yields more accurate results in revealing the collapse potential at different portions of the structure, but also is more economical in allocating this method for designing structures against progressive collapse. Based on the software results, some indices of linear and nonlinear behavior of the systems such as yield load, vertical deformations, ductility, concrete deck effect, damping percentages, plastic rotations were analyzed. However due to limitations of SAP2000 software, the results were not comprehensive enough to provide insight understanding to the failure mechanisms. Therefore, a more advanced finite element model using ABAQUS software was then developed. The finite element model was a full 3-D truss located between 5th and 6th floors of the existing model designed by SAP2000 with the same dimensions and the same sections using the Solid Part option in ABAQUS. The material properties, geometric and material nonlinearity and the loads were identical to the model developed using Sap 2000. The results indicates that the failure zones of the Staggered Truss Systems using both finite element software were comparable, however, the finite element model using ABAQUS also provided insights to the failure mechanisms such as plastic hinges on gusset plates and the exact location of plastic higes on truss chord were also obtained. Keywords: Progressive Collapse, Linear Static, Nonlinear Dynamic, Time History, Plastic Hinges, Plastic Rotation, Vertical Deflection
Application of Composite Slab With Galvanized Steel Deck in Reinforced Concrete Frame
Composite slab which consist of galvanized steel sheet with in-situ concrete is widely used in steel framed structure due to its advantages in terms of overall weight of the structure, efficiency, practicality as it is used as a permanent form work and as positive reinforcement after the hardening of the concrete. Furthermore, it is non-propped in most of the cases. This research was aimed at investigating the possibility of using the composite slab with galvanized steel deck in reinforced concrete (RC) frames. Investigation of the efficiency and the applicability of the system included the evaluation of the composite slab with RC beam by using three different static test. Flexural capacity of the new system was investıgated through the four-point static test. These tests were used to assess the behavior of the slab which was carried by the RC beam under gravity load and the behavior was compared with the traditional concrete solid slab. Shear bond test has been done to evaluate the locally available material by m-k value method. Push-of test has been done on a series of specimens to find out the amount of slip between the beam and the slabs. As a result, it was found that the composite slab can be applied in a RC frame with a special practical consideration. Moreover, the overall weight of the RC framed structure can be reduced by using this type of slab instead of solid concrete one-way, two-way slabs, joist and flat slabs and this approach may also speed up the construction process. Keywords: Composite Slab, Static Test, Shear Bond, m-k Value, Slip Capacity, Push of Test, Steel Sheet, Composite Slab in Reinforced Concrete Frame. .
Development of Lightweight Calcium-Magnesium based Panels (LCMP) as a Thermal Insulation for Structures
Buildings are consumers of large amounts of energy in all countries. In regions with tough climate conditions, a good percentage of the total energy consumption is due to cooling and heating of the buildings. The most important factor of saving energy in buildings is to be aware of thermal properties of the construction materials. The correct and effective use of thermal insulation in buildings contribute towards reducing the required air-conditioning or central heating system size with further reduction in the annual cost of energy. In addition, it could help in achieving thermal comfort without reliance on electrical or mechanical air-conditioning, in particular, during inter-season times. The amount of energy savings as a result of using thermal insulation differ according to the building type, the location of building (climatic conditions), and type of the insulation material used. The objective of this research is to investigate the lightweight calcium-magnesium based panel (LCMP) as a thermal insulation in buildings and also comparing the costs of some ordinary insulation materials such as: polystyrene, polyurethane, mineral wool and etc. Thermal resistance (R), thermal conductivity ( ), thermal conductance (1/R) and thermal transmittance (U factor) are main thermal factors of LCMP as a thermal insulation material that measured separately. Also these factors measured for a wall containing combination of LCMP and masonry materials. Experiments on fire resistance, compressive strength, water absorption and pulse velocity of LCMP were carried out. Results show that the main thermal factors of LCMP are acceptable as per the standards and building codes. Reaction of LCMP in case of fire indicates that it is fire resistant. Water absorption of LCMP is slightly high. LCMP is also a fragile material which is not strong enough to be used as a structural material. However, it is suitable to be used as a thermal insulation for buildings. Pulse velocity test shows that LCMP samples have a good uniformity. The cost of manufacturing LCMP is 128 $/ m 3. When compared to other thermal insulation material prices, the price of LCMP is reasonable. Keywords: Lightweight Calcium-Magnesium Panels, Lightweight Panels, Saving Energy, Thermal Conductivity
Behavior of Steel Reduced Beam Web (RBW) Connections with Multi Longitudinal Voids
Since the earthquakes in Northridge and Kobe in 1994 and 1995 respectively, many investigations have been carried out towards improving the strength and ductility of steel beam to column pre and post-Northridge connections. In order to achieve these objectives recent researches are mainly focused on three principles; reducing the beam section to improve the beam ductility, adding different kinds of slit damper to beam and column flanges to absorb and dissipate the input earthquake energy in the connection and strengthening the connection area using additional elements such as rib plates, cover plates and flange plates to keep the plastic hinges away from the column face. This research presents a reduced beam section approach via the introduction of multi longitudinal voids (MLV) in the beam web for various beam depths varying from 450mm to 912mm. ANSYS finite element program was used to simulate the three different sizes of SAC (Structural Engineering Association of California) sections, SAC3, SAC5 and SAC7. Then the modification was applied to these post-Northridge SAC sections. Results showed an improvement in the connection ductility since the input energy was dissipated uniformly along the beam length and the total rotation of the connection was over four percent radian. Keywords: Multi-Longitudinal Voids; Strength; Ductility; post-Northridge connection.
Dynamic Time History and Pushover Analysis of Special Truss Moment Frames by Using Eurocodes
Special Truss Moment Frames (STMFs)were introduced in USA (1994) as a new system alternative to ordinary Truss Moment Frames (TMF). STMFs are resistant to both gravity and lateral loads over long spans and AISC 341-10 has all the necessary design procedures. STMF design procedures are not available in Eurocodes. Therefore, the main objective of this research was to investigate STMF by using Eurocodes and European steel sections. A numerical study was undertaken to study the seismic behaviour of (STMFs) using dynamic time history and pushover analysis. Performance-based Plastic Design (PBPD) methodology was used to design the STMF based on Eurocode 8 and in some parts AISC 341-10 code was used. Seismostruct software was used to design frames with 4, 7 and 10 stories and to investigate parameters, such as, maximum base shear, drift story, capacity curve and also performance criteria (chord rotation) according to Eurocodes through extensive nonlinear dynamic analysis for an appropriate number of ground motion records. In second phase, a set of nonlinear static (pushover) analysis carried out to find the capacity curve, base shear and story drifts. In the third phase, SAP2000 was used to find performance limit state of STMF and TMF and the results were compared together. In fourth phase, the behaviour factor of STMFs was calculated and compared with the behaviour factor of other structural framing systems. The results obtained were compared with the results of similar frames from past literature. Overall, the results confirmed the validity of the proposed framing system by meeting all the performance design objectives, such as, target drifts and intended yield mechanism. Generally, nonlinear analysis do not required the structural performance check after PBPD and this can be considered as an advantage. Keywords: STMF, PBPD, Dynamic time history, pushover, performance criteria
Status of the Public Building Sustainability in Lebanon: A Case Study on Fares Library
In recent years, green buildings have become particularly vital for development of commercial buildings around the world. Some of the benefits of sustainable buildings can be listed as; lowering the usage of water, energy and the overall negative effects to the occupant’s health and the environment. Green building concept is currently may not be the priority for Lebanon, who faced many crises over the last forty years, which resulted in serious damages to its environment, infrastructure and structures. However, the need for re-building Lebanon urges this to be in a sustainable manner. The objective of this research is to find out how ready Lebanon is to implement green building concept, particularly for public buildings. This aim was achieved through; seeking information from authorities, local associations and citizens; a survey distributed to general public, engineers and architects to identify their knowledge and motivation; a case study was conducted on a Library building where some of the green features are present. Furthermore, this building was evaluated using Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification system to show the benefits of the application of green building concept. It was found that currently Lebanon does not have green building policies in place. But, younger age group seems to have awareness, will to learn, use and apply such concepts. Furthermore, non-government organizations (NGO) appear to have joined forces and giving strong support towards this matter being seriously handled by the authorities. Keywords: green buildings, LEED, library building, build capacity
Parametric Study on Moment-Rotation Characteristics of Reverse Channel Connections (RCC) to Tubular Columns
The significance of this parametric study initiates from the need for further understanding of the behaviour of semi-rigid/partial-strength I-beam to tubular column connections. This research attempted to gain a qualitative understanding of the influence of the geometrical configurations and materials properties of reverse channel connections (RCC) on the moment-rotation (M-) response. It also introduces a double reverse channel connection (DRCC), where the reverse channel is split into two pieces, by leaving a gap in between, for better access to bolts. Hence, ABAQUS (v.6.12) software was used to develop three-dimensional (3-D) FE models for 206 specimens. The FE models developed were validated against the experimental results available from literature where 268 FE models were used for sensitivity analysis. The main emphasis of this research was on the stiffness, strength, sources of deformability, rotational capacity and failure mechanisms of the RCC. Based on the results of numerical M-curves, a standardized moment-rotation function for reverse channel flush end-plate connection (RCC) was introduced. This function is expressed in terms of the geometric parameters for the purposes of either predicting the connection behavior or incorporating the behavior into a frame analysis computer program. Out of the six currently available functions, the KishiChen and Richard-Abbott models were proved appropriate for fitting experimental M-data for RCC. The two functions were successfully used in this parametric study to express the relationships for 140 specimens, where the analytical and predicted data are in very good agreement. However, the results of the fitted functions indicate that the dimensionless form of Richard-Abbott function provides more accuracy than Kishi-Chen function. Furthermore, the comparison of Eurocode-3 model with numerical M-curves illustrated a significant overestimation of the knee region behaviour for most of the cases, particularly for RCC with low initial stiffness. Keywords: reverse channel, double reverse channel, moment–rotation curve, tubular column, HSS, stiffness, moment capacity, rotational capacity, standardized function, Kishi-Chen model, Richard-Abbott model.