Reliability analysis of strong column‐weak beam design for reinforced concrete frames based on design value method

Abstract The design of reinforced concrete (RC) frames in many codes is based on the strong column‐weak beam design concept. However, this design concept is not fully considered in the current reliability analysis method, resulting in an inability to unambiguously reveal the reliability control level of RC frames. This study analyzes the statistical parameters of the resistance for the relevant components in the strong column‐weak beam design. Based on the Chinese code, the reliability index is determined through Monte Carlo simulation, and the target reliability index is proposed. Finally, the improved design value method for this design concept is presented using the current approach. The results show that the effects of material properties, geometric dimensions, and calculation models on the component resistance uncertainty are dominant. The suggested target reliability indices for the strong column‐weak beam design with seismic Grades I–IV are 2.1, 1.6, 1.4, and 1.2, respectively. The improved design value method enhances the efficiency of structural reliability and accurately predicts reliability in practical engineering applications.