Design of Steel Structures applies the analysis results from Theory of Structures to size real structural members as per IS 800 — from the Working Stress Method fundamentals, through structural fasteners (rivets, bolts, welds), tension and compression member design, beam design and lateral torsional buckling, plate girders and industrial roof systems, up to plastic (ultimate load) analysis. Every formula, IS code clause, diagram, solved example and exam-pattern table is included.
After studying this chapter you will be able to:
Prerequisite: Theory of Structures (determinacy, analysis methods and BM/SF diagrams computed there are the direct inputs to member sizing here). Related: RCC/PCC Design covers the equivalent design process for reinforced/plain concrete members.
Steel design in India is governed primarily by IS 800:2007 (Limit State Method) and the older IS 800:1984 (Working Stress Method). For competitive exams (GATE, ESE, SSC JE), both versions are relevant; traditional syllabi still emphasise WSM heavily.
Rivets are permanent fasteners driven hot and cooled in place, forming a head on the free end. Though largely replaced by bolts and welds in modern construction, they remain important for exam purposes.
Strength in single shear: \(P_s = (\pi/4) \times d^{2} \times \tau_{va}\). Strength in double shear: \(P_s = 2 \times (\pi/4) \times d^{2} \times \tau_{va}\). Strength in bearing: \(P_b = d \times t \times \sigma_{pb}\). Strength in tearing: \(P_t = (p - d) \times t \times \sigma_{at}\).
Where: d = gross diameter of rivet (nominal dia + 1.5 mm for hot-driven rivets, per IS 1929; use gross dia for shear, net for tearing); \(\tau_{va}\) = permissible shear stress in rivet = 100 MPa (IS 800); \(\sigma_{pb}\) = permissible bearing stress = 300 MPa (IS 800); \(\sigma_{at}\) = permissible axial tensile stress in plate = 150 MPa; p = pitch of rivets, t = thickness of plate. Rivet value \(R = \min(P_s, P_b)\) for a single rivet in a lap/butt joint.
η = (Strength of joint per pitch) / (Strength of solid plate per pitch). For a single-riveted lap joint with one rivet per pitch: \(\eta_{tearing} = (p - d) / p\) and \(\eta_{shearing} = P_s / (p \times t \times \sigma_{at})\). A balanced joint has \(\eta_{tearing} = \eta_{shearing}\), giving the optimal pitch.
| Dimension | Minimum | Maximum | IS 800 Clause |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pitch (p) | 3d (d = gross rivet dia) | 16t or 200 mm (in tension) / 12t or 200 mm (in compression) | Cl. 10.2 |
| Edge distance (e) | 1.5d (sheared edge), 1.25d (rolled/sawn) | 12t (12 × plate thickness) | Cl. 10.2.4 |
| Back pitch / gauge (g) | 3d | Same as pitch max | — |
HSFG bolts (IS 3757) are tightened to a high preload (proof load), creating clamping friction between surfaces. Load transfer is by friction, not shear of the bolt shank — no slippage at working loads. Superior fatigue performance; used in bridges and dynamically loaded structures.
Slip resistance of HSFG bolt (per bolt per interface): \(P_{sf} = \mu \times T_f \times n_e\), where \(\mu\) = slip factor (0.45 for grit-blasted surfaces; 0.2 for as-rolled), \(T_f\) = proof load of bolt (from IS 1367 tables), \(n_e\) = number of effective interfaces (1 for single shear, 2 for double). For an M20 bolt Grade 8.8: \(T_f = 144\) kN; proof stress = 628 MPa.
| Feature | Black Bolt (IS 1364) | HSFG Bolt (IS 3757) |
|---|---|---|
| Load transfer | Shear of bolt shank + bearing on hole | Friction between clamped surfaces |
| Clearance hole | 2–3 mm larger than bolt | 1–2 mm larger; tight tolerances |
| Slip at working load | May slip into bearing (not ideal for fatigue) | No-slip; rigid connection |
| Grade designations | 4.6 (UTS 400 MPa, Fy 240); 8.8; 10.9 | 8.8 (most common) |
| Use | Ordinary structures, non-fatigue loads | Bridges, cranes, fatigue loading |
| Tightening | Snug tight (hand-tight) | Full proof load via torque wrench / turn-of-nut |
Welds are classified into butt welds (groove welds) and fillet welds. For competitive exams, fillet weld design is the most important.
Effective throat thickness: \(t_e = 0.707 \times s\) (for 90° fillet welds; s = weld size = leg length). IS 816 uses effective throat \(= K \times s\), K = 0.7 for a 90° weld angle. Permissible shear stress in weld (on throat): \(\tau_w = 110\) MPa (IS 816, E41 electrode). Strength of fillet weld per unit length: \(q = t_e \times \tau_w = 0.707 \times s \times 110\) (N/mm per mm run of weld).
Weld size limits — minimum weld size depends on the thicker part being joined: up to 10 mm plate → 3 mm weld; 10–20 mm → 5 mm; 20–32 mm → 6 mm; > 32 mm → 8 mm. Maximum weld size: t − 1.5 mm for plates ≤ 6 mm; = t for plates > 6 mm (rounded corner). Minimum length of fillet weld: max(4s, 40 mm). Effective length = total length − 2s (deduct for starting/stopping craters).
Full penetration butt weld (CJP): effective throat = thickness of thinner plate joined. Strength = throat × length × \(\sigma_{at}\) (permissible stress same as parent metal). There is no reduction for joint efficiency in full-penetration butt welds → 100% efficient.
When load P acts at eccentricity e from the CG of a bolt/weld group, the moment \(M = P \times e\). For a bolt group, the force on the most critical bolt has two components: Direct shear \(F_d = P / n\) (n = number of bolts) and Torsional shear \(F_t = M \times r_{max} / (\Sigma r^{2})\), where \(r_{max}\) = distance of the farthest bolt from the CG and \(\Sigma r^2\) = sum of squared distances. Resultant on the critical bolt: \(F_R = \sqrt{F_d^{2} + F_t^{2} + 2\cdot F_d\cdot F_t\cdot \cos\theta}\), where \(\theta\) = angle between \(F_d\) and \(F_t\) directions at the critical bolt.
| Connection Type | Moment Transfer | Rotation | Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simple (pin) connection | No moment (shear only) | Free rotation | Non-moment frames; beam-to-girder web |
| Semi-rigid connection | Partial moment | Partial rotation | Composite frames; web cleats + top cleat |
| Rigid (fixed) connection | Full moment | No relative rotation | Portal frames; moment-resisting frames |
Tension members are structural elements carrying axial tensile forces — bottom chords of trusses, hangers, cable stays, tie rods, bracing members. Their design is governed by avoiding yielding of the gross section and fracture at the net section.
Gross area \(A_g\) = full cross-sectional area (ignoring holes). Net area at a bolt/rivet hole section: \(A_n = A_g - n \times d_h \times t\), where \(n\) = number of holes at the critical section, \(d_h\) = hole dia = rivet dia + 1.5 mm (IS 800), \(t\) = thickness of element.
For staggered holes — net width (Cochrane formula): \(w_n = w_g - \Sigma d_h + \Sigma(s^{2}/4g)\), where \(s\) = stagger (longitudinal spacing between holes), \(g\) = gauge (transverse spacing); \(A_n = w_n \times t\). Apply this to all possible failure paths and use the minimum net area.
Permissible axial tensile stress: \(\sigma_{at} = 0.6 \times f_y\). For Fe250 (mild steel, \(f_y\) = 250 MPa): \(\sigma_{at} = 150\) MPa. Design tensile capacity: \(T_{dg} = A_g \times \sigma_{at}\) (based on gross area yielding); \(T_{dn} = A_n \times 0.9 \times f_u / \gamma_{m1}\) (LSD approach for fracture at net section). WSM: \(T_{allowed} = A_n \times \sigma_{at}\) (net area governs when holes are present).
When only one leg of an angle is connected, the outstanding (unconnected) leg does not carry full stress — this is shear lag. The net effective area is reduced by a shear lag factor.
Net effective area for outstanding leg (IS 800:1984): \(A_{eff} = A_1 + A_2 \times k\), where \(k = 3A_1 / (3A_1 + A_2)\); \(A_1\) = net area of connected leg (after deducting hole area), \(A_2\) = gross area of unconnected leg. Alternatively per IS 800:2007, shear lag factor \(\beta = 1 - w_s/L_c\) (for connection length \(L_c\), shear lag width \(w_s\)).
| Type | Typical Section | Advantage | Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single angle | ISA (unequal/equal) | Simple; easy to connect | Eccentric connection; shear lag; unsymmetric |
| Double angle (back-to-back) | 2×ISA with gusset | Symmetric; greater area | Need lacing/batten plates for compound section |
| T-section | IST (rolled T) | Direct connection to gusset | Limited sections available |
| Channels | ISMC, ISSC | Larger area; stiff laterally | Single-sided connection eccentricity |
| Built-up box section | 2 channels + plates | Large area; symmetric; good torsional stiffness | More fabrication; expensive |
| Wire ropes / rods | Circular | Very high tension capacity; flexible | No compression capacity; needs turnbuckles |
A lug angle is a short angle cleat welded or bolted to the outstanding leg of a main angle member near the connection point, to transfer part of the load directly, reducing the shear lag effect and the required connection length.
With lug angles, the effective net area = full gross area (shear lag eliminated). Lug angle force = \((A_2 / A_{total}) \times P\), where \(A_2\) = unconnected leg area. The lug angle connection must carry ≥ 120% of the force in the attached leg (IS 800).
Compression members (struts, columns, top chords of trusses, stanchions) must resist yielding of the cross-section and flexural buckling (Euler-type instability). As slenderness ratio increases, buckling becomes the governing criterion.
Permissible compressive stress \(\sigma_{ac}\) depends on slenderness ratio \(\lambda = l/r\). From IS 800 Table 5.1 (for \(f_y = 250\) MPa):
| \(\lambda\) | 0 | 50 | 100 | 150 | 180 | 200 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| \(\sigma_{ac}\) (MPa) | 150.0 | 139.0 | 107.5 | 64.4 | 46.5 | 38.4 |
At \(\lambda = 0\), \(\sigma_{ac} = \sigma_{at} = 150\) MPa since the gross section simply yields. Maximum permitted \(\lambda\) for main members is 180 (\(\lambda=200\) is only reached for secondary/bracing members). Maximum slenderness ratio (IS 800:1984): main compression members \(\lambda_{max} = 180\); secondary members (bracing) \(\lambda_{max} = 200\). Design: \(P_{allowed} = A_g \times \sigma_{ac}(\lambda)\).
| End Condition | Effective Length \(L_{eff}\) | IS 800 Factor |
|---|---|---|
| Both ends pin (pin-pin) | L | 1.0 L |
| Both ends fixed | 0.5 L | 0.5 L |
| One fixed, one pin | 0.7 L (≈ \(L/\sqrt{2}\)) | 0.7 L |
| One fixed, one free (flagpole) | 2.0 L | 2.0 L |
| Fixed-pin with restraint against sway | 0.85 L | 0.85 L |
| Both fixed with sway possible | 1.2 L | 1.2 L |
Lacing is designed for a transverse shear force \(V\) = 2.5% of \(P\) (axial column load), per IS 800 Cl. 7.6.6.1 — this shear is assumed to act on the whole column. For N-lacing (single), force in each lacing bar: \(F_{lace} = V/(2\sin\theta)\), where \(\theta\) = angle of the lacing bar with the axis perpendicular to the member axis.
Lacing bar slenderness: \(l/r_{min} \le 145\) (single lacing). Lacing angle to longitudinal axis: 40° to 70° (optimal ~50°–60°). Minimum width of flat lacing: l/40 but not < 25 mm. Minimum thickness: l/60 for single; l/40 for double (l = lacing length).
Battens are designed for longitudinal shear \(V_L = V \times C / (2 \times n_b \times S)\) and moment in batten \(M = V \times C / (2 \times n_b)\), where \(C\) = distance between centroids of connections on each main member, \(n_b\) = number of bays, \(S\) = distance between panel points.
Batten dimensions (IS 800): depth ≥ 0.75b (b = distance between inner edges of main members); thickness ≥ 1/50 × distance between inner edges, min 6 mm; spacing not more than 0.7 times the min radius of gyration of the main member × 50.
A splice is a joint connecting two lengths of the same member. Compression splices must transfer the full compressive force plus any accidental bending. If ends are machined flat (milled ends): 50% of load is transferred by direct bearing, 50% by fasteners. If ends are not milled: full load transfer through fasteners. Splice plate design: sized to carry the full design load in compression. IS 800 requires the splice to carry at least 50% of \(P\) (even if milled ends are assumed).
A column base transfers the column load to the concrete pedestal/footing over an area large enough to keep the bearing pressure within the permissible value for concrete. Two principal types:
| Type | Description | Load type |
|---|---|---|
| Slab base | Thick plate directly under the column, machined for bearing; column may be faced for direct bearing | Axial (concentric) load |
| Gusseted base | Base plate + gusset plates/angles that increase the load-transfer area and stiffness | Heavier axial loads |
| Moment / pocket base | Base with anchor bolts resisting uplift/moment (or column grouted into a pocket) | Axial load + moment |
Slab base design (IS 800 Cl. 7.4): the plate thickness is governed by the cantilever bending of the plate projection under the uniform bearing pressure \(w\):
$$ t_s = \sqrt{\frac{2.5\,w\,(a^2 - 0.3b^2)\,\gamma_{m0}}{f_y}} $$
where \(a, b\) = larger and smaller projections of the plate beyond the column, \(w\) = uniform pressure under the plate. Anchor bolts (holding-down bolts) connect the base to the foundation and resist uplift and shear; a minimum of four bolts is provided for stability. For bases carrying moment, the plate is designed for the resulting non-uniform (trapezoidal or triangular, with anchor-bolt tension) pressure distribution.
| Type | Section | Span Range | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simple rolled beam | ISMB, ISWB, ISHB | Up to 8–10 m | Floors, bridges, crane girders |
| Compound beam | Rolled section + cover plates | 10–15 m | When standard sections insufficient |
| Built-up girder | Plate girder (web + flanges) | 15–30 m | Heavy loads, longer spans |
| Composite beam | Steel beam + RC slab | 8–25 m | Modern buildings; bridges |
| Castellated beam | ISMB with hexagonal web cut-outs | 10–20 m | Light loads; service passage through web |
For compact sections with full lateral support: \(\sigma_{bt} = \sigma_{bc} = 0.66 \times f_y = 165\) MPa (for Fe250, \(f_y\) = 250 MPa). Required section modulus: \(Z_{required} = M_{max} / \sigma_{bc}\).
Shear stress check: average shear stress \(\tau_{va} = V / (d \times t_w) \leq 100\) MPa; maximum shear stress \(\tau_{vm} = 1.5 \times \tau_{va} \leq 115\) MPa (for thin webs). Deflection check: \(\delta_{max} \le L/325\) (IS 800) for beams carrying plaster or sensitive finishes; \(\delta_{max} \le L/360\) for roofs (without plaster).
When a beam's compression flange is not adequately restrained laterally, it may buckle sideways (lateral torsional buckling) at a load below the full plastic/elastic capacity. The effective length for LTB governs the permissible bending stress.
Permissible bending compressive stress \(\sigma_{bc}\) (IS 800:1984) depends on: (1) \(D/T\) (depth-to-flange thickness ratio); (2) \(l/r_y\) (slenderness for LTB; \(l\) = effective length between lateral supports). From IS 800 Table 6.1B: \(\sigma_{bc}\) decreases as \(l/r_y\) or \(D/T\) increases. Full plastic moment is available only when \(l/r_y \le\) the permissible limit; otherwise a reduced \(\sigma_{bc}\) from the code tables applies.
Effective length for LTB (IS 800 Table 6.3): compression flange fully restrained (both ends) → \(l = 0.7 \times L\) (L = span); compression flange partially restrained → \(l = 0.85 \times L\); compression flange unrestrained → \(l = 1.0 \times L\).
Web Buckling (under concentrated load or reaction): dispersal angle through flange = 45° (IS 800); bearing length at web \(b_1\) = load dispersal width; load-bearing capacity \(P_{wb} = (b_1 + n_1) \times t_w \times \sigma_{ac}(\lambda)\), where \(\lambda = 2.5 \times d / t_w\) (slenderness of web in bearing).
Web Crippling (local yielding at support/point load): \(P_{wc} = (b + 2.5 \times T_f) \times t_w \times f_{yw}\), where \(b\) = bearing length, \(T_f\) = flange thickness, \(t_w\) = web thickness, \(f_{yw}\) = yield stress of web.
When the required Z exceeds available rolled sections, add cover plates to the flanges: \(Z_{compound} = Z_{rolled} + A_{plate} \times \bar y_{plate}\). Horizontal shear per unit length at the plate-flange interface (shear flow): \(q = V \times Q / I\), where \(Q = A_{plate} \times \bar y_{plate}\) (first moment of the cover plate about the NA). Weld/rivet spacing to resist shear flow: \(spacing = R / q\), where R = weld strength per unit length or rivet value.
Interaction equation (IS 800:1984 WSM): \(P/P_a + M_x/M_{ax} + M_y/M_{ay} \le 1.0\), where \(P\) = applied axial load, \(P_a\) = axial capacity \(= A_g \times \sigma_{ac}\); \(M_x\) = bending moment about the major axis, \(M_{ax} = Z_x \times \sigma_{bc}\); \(M_y\) = bending moment about the minor axis, \(M_{ay} = Z_y \times \sigma_{bc}\).
Additional check for yielding at the extreme fibre (interaction): \(P/P_e + C_m \times M_x / [(1 - P/P_e) \times M_{ax}] \le 1.0\), where \(P_e = \pi^{2}EI_x / (L_{eff})^{2}\) (Euler load for the major axis).
A plate girder is a built-up flexural member fabricated by welding (or riveting) flat plates to form an I-shape — a web plate and two flange plates. Used when spans exceed the economical rolled-section range (15–100 m) or loads are too heavy for standard sections.
Web depth d (economic depth — minimises total steel weight): \(d_{eco} = \dfrac{M}{\sigma_{bc}} \times \left(\dfrac{12}{t_w}\right)^{1/3}\) [approximate; varies with flange assumptions].
Web thickness \(t_w\) limits (IS 800): without horizontal stiffeners \(d/t_w \le 200\); with horizontal stiffeners \(d/t_w \le 250\). Average web shear stress: \(\tau = V/(d \times t_w) \le \tau_{va} = 100\) MPa. For slender webs (\(d/t_w > 85\)): tension field action may be considered.
Flange area required (approximate — web carries moment contribution ≈ 1/6): \(A_f = M / (\sigma_{bc} \times d) - t_w \times d / 6\). OR more precisely: \(I_{required} = M \times y_{max} / \sigma_{bc}\) (full section MI from extreme fibre stress); \(I_{web} = t_w \times d^{3} / 12\); \(I_{flange,needed} = I_{required} - I_{web}\); \(A_f = I_{flange,needed} / (d/2)^2\) [approx, flange as thin plate at \(d/2\) from NA].
Flange width \(b_f\) limits (outstand criterion to prevent local buckling): \(b/t \le 256/\sqrt{f_y}\) (plate outstand from web face; IS 800 WSM). For \(f_y = 250\) MPa: \(b/t \le 256/\sqrt{250} \approx 16.2\).
| Stiffener Type | Location | Purpose | Design For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bearing stiffener (load-bearing) | Over supports and under concentrated loads | Prevent web crippling; transfer reaction | Axial compression from reaction/point load |
| Intermediate transverse | At regular intervals along web | Prevent shear buckling of web | Shear buckling (d/t_w, panel aspect ratio) |
| Longitudinal stiffener | Horizontal, in compression zone of web | Prevent bending buckling of web | d/t_w > 200 (prevents need for thicker web) |
| Flange stiffener | Attached to flange (plates) | Reduce flange outstand | Local flange buckling control |
Transverse stiffener spacing (IS 800 — to prevent shear buckling): \(c/d \le 1.5\) (aspect ratio of each panel). Without diagonal tension, shear stress \(\tau \le \tau_{cr}\) (critical shear buckling stress): \(\tau_{cr} = k_s \times \pi^{2}E / (12(1-\nu^{2})) \times (t_w/d)^{2}\), where \(k_s\) = shear buckling coefficient \(\approx 5.35 + 4.0/(c/d)^2\) for intermediate panels.
Horizontal shear flow at the flange-web interface: \(q_{fw} = V \times A_f \times \bar{y}_f / I\). Weld size required: \(s_w = q_{fw} / (2 \times 0.707 \times \tau_w) = q_{fw} / (2 \times 0.707 \times 110)\) [two fillet welds, one each side of web; E41 electrode, \(\tau_w = 110\) MPa].
Industrial buildings use steel roof trusses (spanning 10–30 m) or lattice girders for large clear spans. The roof system must carry dead loads (sheeting, purlins), live loads, wind, and snow/maintenance loads.
| Load Type | Source | Typical Value | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dead load (roofing) | Sheeting, purlins, truss self-weight | 0.4–1.0 kN/m² (horizontal) | Permanent; full span |
| Live load (roof) | Maintenance, minor snow | 0.75 kN/m² (IS 875 Part 2) | Reduced for slopes > 10° |
| Wind load | External pressure / suction | Per IS 875 Part 3; Cp values | May cause uplift on windward slope |
| Snow load | Accumulation (applicable zones) | 0.25–2.5 kN/m² (IS 875 Part 4) | Hilly/cold regions; Jammu, NE India |
| Crane girder loads | Overhead traveling cranes | Wheel loads per crane capacity | Industrial buildings with cranes |
Purlins are secondary beams spanning between roof trusses, supporting the roof covering (sheeting). They are typically angle sections, channel sections, or Z-sections.
Purlin load: \(w = (\text{dead} + \text{live} + \text{wind}) \times \text{spacing of purlins} \times \cos\theta\) (the component perpendicular to the roof surface governs bending). Biaxial bending check: \(M_u/Z_{xx} + M_v/Z_{yy} \le \sigma_{bc}\), where \(M_u = wL^2/8 \times \cos\alpha\) (in plane of roof) and \(M_v = wL^2/8 \times \sin\alpha\) (perpendicular to roof); \(\alpha\) = roof slope angle. Sag rods reduce \(M_v\) by providing intermediate support in the minor axis.
Crane girder must be designed for: (1) Vertical loads — wheel loads with impact factor (IS 875 Part 2): \(P_{design} = P_{wheel} \times\) (1 + impact factor); impact factor = 10–25% of the lifted load (depending on class of crane). (2) Horizontal lateral loads (surge): 10% of wheel load (side thrust from crane travel). (3) Fatigue considerations for frequently operated cranes.
Deflection limit for crane girder: \(\delta \le L/750\) (running clearance requirement).
Elastic design assumes the structure fails when the most stressed fibre yields. Plastic (ultimate load) design recognises that after first yield, load redistribution continues until a plastic collapse mechanism forms. This allows more economical design because unused capacity of redundant structures is utilised.
Elastic limit: \(\sigma_y\) at extreme fibre; NA at geometric centroid. At plastic limit (full section yielded): Plastic moment \(M_p = f_y \times Z_p\); elastic moment \(M_y = f_y \times Z_e\) (\(Z_e\) = elastic section modulus = I/y).
Plastic section modulus \(Z_p\) = first moment of area about the equal-area axis: \(Z_p = A/2 \times (\bar y_{top} + \bar y_{bot})\), where \(\bar y\) = centroid of the top/bottom half from the plastic neutral axis. Shape factor (form factor): \(f = M_p / M_y = Z_p / Z_e\). Rectangle: f = 1.5. Solid circle: f = 1.698 ≈ 1.7. Diamond: f = 2.0. I-section: f ≈ 1.12–1.15 (close to 1.0 for deep, slender I). Hollow circle: f ≈ 1.27 (thin-walled).
A plastic hinge forms at a cross-section where the full plastic moment \(M_p\) has been reached. Unlike a real hinge (no moment), a plastic hinge can rotate freely while maintaining \(M_p\). After formation, it acts as a pin in further load analysis — i.e., it transmits constant \(M_p\) while allowing rotation to continue.
Number of plastic hinges needed for collapse (mechanism): \(n_h = DSI + 1\) (for a one-degree mechanism), where DSI = degree of static indeterminacy. Simply supported beam (DSI=0): 1 hinge for collapse. Propped cantilever (DSI=1): 2 hinges for collapse. Fixed-fixed beam under one load: needs \(DSI_{bending} + 1 = 2+1 = 3\) hinges ✓ (3 bending redundants → need 3 hinges for a single-load mechanism).
| Beam Type | Loading | Collapse Load | Elastic Load | Load Factor f |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SS beam | Central P | 4M_p/L | 4M_y/L | f = M_p/M_y = shape factor |
| SS beam | UDL w | 8M_p/L² | 8M_y/L² | f = shape factor |
| Propped cantilever | Central P | 6M_p/L | 5.03M_y/L (first yield at fixed end) | ~1.19×M_p/M_y |
| Propped cantilever | UDL w | 11.66M_p/L² | 8M_y/L² (fixed end) | ~1.46×M_p/M_y |
| Fixed-fixed beam | Central P | 8M_p/L | 6M_y/L | \(\frac{4}{3}\times(M_p/M_y)\) |
| Fixed-fixed beam | UDL w | 16M_p/L² | 12M_y/L² (ends) | \(\frac{4}{3}\times(M_p/M_y)\) |
Rules (Lower Bound Theorem): (1) Equilibrium — the moment diagram must be in equilibrium with the applied loads; (2) Yield — \(|M| \le M_p\) at all sections; (3) The collapse load so determined is a lower bound (safe side). Procedure: assume plastic hinge locations → equilibrium gives \(P_u\) → check \(|M| \le M_p\) everywhere.
Rules (Upper Bound Theorem): (1) Mechanism — assume a collapse mechanism (sufficient hinges to turn the structure into a mechanism); (2) Energy balance — external work done = internal energy dissipated at plastic hinges; (3) The collapse load so found is ≥ the true collapse load (unsafe side unless the exact mechanism is found). Energy method: \(\Sigma(P_i \times \delta_i) = \Sigma(M_p \times \theta_j)\), where \(P_i\) = applied loads, \(\delta_i\) = displacements, \(\theta_j\) = hinge rotation.
Fixed-pinned beam, UDL w over full span L: a plastic hinge forms first at the fixed end (max hogging BM). After the first hinge, the system becomes an SS beam (the propped cantilever rotates at the fixed end); a second hinge forms at the location of max +ve BM.
Energy method for the mechanism (2 hinges): let hinge 1 be at fixed end A (rotation \(\theta_1\)), hinge 2 at \(x = x_0\) from A (rotation \(\theta_1 + \theta_2\)). At B (roller), \(\delta_B = 0\), so compatibility gives \(x_0\theta_1 = (L-x_0)\theta_2 \to \theta_2 = x_0\theta_1/(L-x_0)\). Internal work = \(M_p \times \theta_1 + M_p \times (\theta_1 + \theta_2) = M_p \times (2\theta_1 + \theta_2)\). Minimising \(w_u\) with respect to \(x_0\): \(dw_u/dx_{0} = 0 \to x_{0} = 0.414L\), giving the exact result \(w_u = 11.66\,M_p / L^{2}\).
Load factor = Collapse load / Working load = \(P_u / P_{working}\). Minimum load factor (IS 800 plastic design): \(\lambda_{min} = 1.85\) (dead + live). Design approach: \(P_u = \lambda_{min} \times P_{working}\); determine \(M_p\) required for each member from collapse analysis; select a section with \(Z_p \ge M_p/f_y\).
Requirements for plastic design (IS 800 Cl. 9): (1) Material — \(f_y \le 450\) MPa, elongation ≥ 15%, \(f_u/f_y \ge 1.2\); (2) Section — compact section (\(b/t \leq 8.9\sqrt{250/f_y}\) for flanges); (3) No LTB — adequate lateral support at plastic hinge locations; (4) Deflection — check under service loads (elastic analysis).
| Section | Z_e | Z_p | Shape Factor f |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rectangle (b × d) | bd²/6 | bd²/4 | 1.5 |
| Solid circle (D) | πD³/32 | D³/6 | 16/(3π) ≈ 1.698 |
| Thin circular tube (D, t) | πD²t/4 | D²t | 4/π ≈ 1.27 |
| Diamond (diag. 2a × 2b) | ab²/3 | ab²/2 | 2.0 |
| I-section (approx) | I/(d/2) | b_f·t_f·(d−t_f)+t_w·d_w²/4 | 1.12–1.15 |
| Triangle (b, h) | bh²/24 | bh²/12 | 2.0 (about apex); varies |
| Topic | GATE Focus | ESE Focus | SSC JE Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fasteners | Rivet value, efficiency, fillet weld strength per unit length | HSFG bolt design; eccentric bolt/weld group; combined shear + tension | Pitch/edge distance rules; failure modes |
| Tension Members | Net area; shear lag k formula; A_eff | Lug angle; staggered holes detailed calc; block shear | Gross vs net area concept |
| Compression Members | σ_ac from table; lacing design; buckling load | Batten plate design; stability of laced column; load eccentricity | Max λ = 180; effective length; types |
| Beams | Z_req, σ_bc, LTB concept; shear check | Beam-column interaction; compound beam design; crane girder | Z_req formula; deflection limits |
| Plate Girder | Web d/t limits; flange b/t; stiffener spacing | Full plate girder design from scratch; tension field action | Component names; web limit |
| Industrial Roofs | Roof truss types; purlin design in biaxial bending | Complete purlin, rafter, truss design; wind load Cp values | Truss type identification; load types |
| Plastic Analysis | Shape factor; collapse load for standard cases; number of hinges | Virtual work method; multi-span frame collapse; load factor | Shape factor values; plastic hinge concept |