Moment-resisting frame

Moment-resisting frame is a rectilinear assemblage of beams and columns, with the beams rigidly connected to the columns.

Resistance to lateral forces is provided primarily by rigid frame action – that is, by the development of bending moment and shear force in the frame members and joints. By virtue of the rigid beam–column connections, a moment frame cannot displace laterally without bending the beams or columns depending on the geometry of the connection. The bending rigidity and strength of the frame members is therefore the primary source of lateral stiffness and strength for the entire frame.^[1]

The 1994 Northridge earthquake revealed a common flaw in steel-frame construction — poorly welded moment connections — and building codes were revised to strengthen them.^[2]

^ Bruneau, Michel. et al., (2011). Ductile Design of Steel Structures. McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. ISBN 978-0-07-162395-7.page 347
^ "20 Years After Northridge Quake, Buildings Remain Vulnerable."

[1] Bruneau, Michel. et al., (2011). Ductile Design of Steel Structures. McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. ISBN 978-0-07-162395-7.page 347

[2] "20 Years After Northridge Quake, Buildings Remain Vulnerable."

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