2010 Research Reports
Books and Book Chapters - Journal Papers - Conference Papers
Higher Degree Theses
Click on the title of the research report to get the abstract and the download link for the PDF version of the report (if it is available)
Kim JR Rasmussen & Benoit P Gilbert, Analysis-based 2D design of steel storage racks, Research Report No R908, April 2010.
Nicholas S Trahair, Steel Cantilever Strength by Inelastic Lateral Buckling, Research Report No R912, March 2010.
Kim JR Rasmussen & Benoit P Gilbert
Analysis-based 2D design of steel storage racks
Research Report No R908, April 2010.
Abstract:
The report presents a study of the capacities of steel rack frames based on linear analysis (LA), geometric nonlinear analysis (GNA) and geometric and material nonlinear analysis (GMNIA). In the case of linear and geometric nonlinear analyses, the design is carried out to the Australian cold-formed steel structures AS/NZS4600. The study includes braced, unbraced and semi-braced frames, and compact and non-compact cross-sections. The report shows axial force and bending moment paths for geometric and geometric and material nonlinear analyses, and explains the differences observed in the design capacities obtained using the different types of analysis on the basis of these paths. The report provides evidence to support the use of advanced geometric and material nonlinear analysis for the direct design of steel rack frames without the need for checking section or member capacities to a structural design standard.
Keywords: Steel Storage Racks, Australian Standard, Advanced Analysis, Design.
Full Report in PDF (1567 kB)
Nicholas S Trahair
Steel Cantilever Strength by Inelastic Lateral Buckling
Research Report No R912, March 2010.
Abstract:
Methods used for the design of steel beams supported at both ends are not well suited for the design of cantilevers against lateral buckling. The end restraints are very different for cantilevers, and the maximum displacements and twist rotations take place at the free ends, instead of near mid-span. Consequently, their buckling modes are very different to those of supported beams. The methods of allowing for the effects of the moment distribution on the elastic and inelastic buckling of supported beams use a mean of the moment distribution which is weighted to allow for the maximum deformations being near mid-span. These methods are clearly inappropriate for cantilevers whose deformations are greatest at the free ends.
Lateral buckling design methods for cantilevers are modifications of the methods for supported beams, but are of doubtful accuracy, and may be over conservative. In some cases there is little or no design guidance.
This paper summarizes information on the effects of the moment distribution and load height on the elastic buckling of cantilevers which can be used in the method of design by buckling analysis. It then extends a method of designing supported beams by inelastic buckling analysis to allow for the effects of the moment distribution on the inelastic buckling of cantilevers. This extended method is then used to provide improved design methods for cantilevers which are consistent with those for simply supported beams. A worked example is summarized.
Keywords: Analysis, cantilevers, design, inelasticity, lateral buckling, steel.
Full Report in PDF (200 kB)
