Simplified Interaction Method for Sway Frames

Abstract

A number of simplifying assumptions are applied to a previously developed multi‐curve interaction method that determines the failure load of sway frames. These simplifications consider the establishment of the required parameters from a subassemblage analysis, the replacement of a rigorous second‐order analysis by a magnified first‐order solution and the determination of the “limiting slenderness ratio” from a single‐cycle approach. Furthermore, a graphical presentation of the major parameters is demonstrated. In all instances, the procedures are illustrated by examples. The results obtained by the simplified techniques indicate a good correlation with more rigorous approaches thus confirming that the presented procedures are suitable as a substitute for full‐scale elasto‐plastic computer solutions. They also produce results which are superior to the Merchant‐Rankine rule, which was proposed by the European Convention for Constructional Steelwork (ECCS) and is intended for inclusion in the new British Spe...