Steel Structure Class Work
Steel Structure Class Work
The net section fracture limit state is concerned with ensuring that the remaining cross-sectional area
after deducting openings is sufficient to resist the applied loads without experiencing fracture. When a
structure is subjected to tensile or shear forces, it is essential to examine the net section to prevent
failure due to fracture.
Here are a few reasons why the net section is considered in relation to the fracture limit state in steel
structures:
Stress Concentration: Holes, slots, and other openings in a member create stress concentrations
around their edges. These stress concentrations can significantly increase the local stresses in the
vicinity of the openings. If these stresses exceed the material's capacity, fracture may occur.
Reduced Cross-Sectional Area: Deducting the area occupied by openings reduces the overall cross-
sectional area of the member available to resist applied loads. The reduced cross-sectional area
influences the capacity of the member to carry loads and needs to be checked against the applied forces
to prevent fracture.
Brittle Nature of Steel: Steel is a material that can exhibit brittle behavior, especially at low
temperatures or when subjected to rapid loading. Ensuring an adequate net section is essential to
prevent sudden and catastrophic failure.
Structural Integrity: The net section fracture limit state is crucial for maintaining the structural
integrity of the member. It ensures that the member remains capable of safely carrying the design loads
without experiencing fracture, which could lead to the collapse of the structure.
In summary, considering the net section in relation to the fracture limit state is essential for preventing
premature failure of steel structures. Engineers must ensure that the remaining cross-sectional area,
accounting for openings, is sufficient to resist the applied forces and avoid fracture. This involves careful
evaluation of stress concentrations, material properties, and overall structural design.
Stiffeners: Adding stiffeners to the connection can help distribute the forces more evenly. Stiffeners
are additional elements (such as ribs or plates) attached to the member to enhance its strength and
stiffness.
Effective Width: Engineers can use an "effective width" concept, where they consider only a portion
of the member's width in their calculations. This is based on the assumption that the forces are more
evenly distributed within this reduced width.
Optimized Member Shapes: Designing members with shapes that naturally resist shear lag can be
effective. For example, using a T-section instead of a simple flat plate can help distribute forces more
evenly.
Connection Details: Improving the design of connections between members can also mitigate shear
lag effects. Ensuring that the connection allows for proper force transfer helps in achieving more
uniform stress distribution.
Analysis and Modeling: Advanced structural analysis techniques can be employed to simulate and
understand the behavior of structures under different loads. This helps in identifying areas of potential
shear lag and designing accordingly.
Reducing shear lag effects is essential to ensure that structures perform as intended and that the forces
are distributed efficiently. Employing a combination of the above strategies allows engineers to design
structures that effectively resist shear lag and maintain overall stability and safety.
ASD METHOD:
Gross yielding design strength = pn = (0.6x36x2.86)=61.776 Kips
Net fracture design strength = pn = ( 0.5x58x2.088) = 60.552 Kips