Design of beams and beam columns

摘要

Beams and beam columns are very important elements in steel structures. This paper gives an introduction to mathematical solution methods, to the typical behaviour of these elements and to the design methods used in new codes in Europe. Special attention is given to the checking of cross-sectional capacity and to the use of simplified design formulae. Additional information, such as diagrams for the lateral torsional buckling parameter k will help to solve practical design problems. For the case of lateral torsional buckling, different types of constructional details are discussed with regard to the load-carrying capacity of beams and beam columns. The new European rules for interaction equations, which are of great importance for practical design, are explained in detail, distinguishing between members which are susceptible to torsional deformations or not.