An examination of the requirements for the design of built-up compression members in the North American and European standards and specifications reveals a great variation in the allowable maximum slenderness ratio for an individual main member, and also in the determination of an equivalent slenderness ratio. The requirements of the Canadian standard with regard to the determination of the maximum allowable slenderness ratio of a main member between points of connection can be a bit confusing.This research involved a study of model built-up members that buckled about an axis perpendicular to the plane of the connectors. Twenty-four tests were conducted on model built-up members. The theoretical analysis consisted of a finite element analysis of the model built-up struts. In addition, an equivalent slenderness ratio was calculated by several methods. These equivalent slenderness ratios were then used in conjunction with the requirements of the Canadian standard to calculate a compressive resistance, which was compared with the experimental failure load.From this research on built-up members that buckle about an axis perpendicular to the plane of the connectors it was found that at least two connectors should be used, that the slenderness ratio of the main member between points of connection has a significant effect on the compressive resistance, and that Timoshenko's equivalent slenderness ratio when used in conjunction with the Canadian standard gives results that are in the best agreement with the experimental results. Key words: battens, built-up members, compressive loads, connectors, equivalent slenderness ratio.
Starred angles are commonly used as web members in trusses. Standards contain requirements which specify the number of interconnectors to be used, but most standards do not specify a preferred arrangement for the interconnectors. When plates are used as interconnectors, three arrangements — aligned, alternating, or cruciform — are possible. Nine starred angles, three with each arrangement of interconnectors, were tested. A finite element analysis was also conducted. It was determined that the arrangement of the interconnectors did not affect the load-carrying capacity of the starred angles. Key words: angles, buckling, building (codes), columns (structural) interconnection, starred angle.
Built-up struts that buckle about an axis perpendicular to the plane of the connectors should be treated as a "built-up" member as opposed to a "simple" member. This mode of buckling causes shear and moments in the connectors which deform the connectors. These deformations increase the lateral deformation of the member and hence affect the load-carrying capacity. To account for this effect the easiest method is to use an equivalent slenderness ratio such as the one included in the Canadian Standard. This note outlines the derivation of the equivalent slenderness ratio equation, discusses when it should and should not be used, and includes a numerical example. A rewording of the applicable clause in the Canadian Standard is suggested. Key words: battens, built-up members, connectors, slenderness ratio.
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