Further studies of practical advanced analysis for weak-axis bending

This paper presents three practical advanced analysis methods for a two-dimensional steel frame design subjected to weak-axis bending moment. The three practical design methods developed and refined here are: firstly, an explicit imperfection modelling method; secondly, an equivalent notional load method; and finally, a further reduced tangent modulus method. The magnitudes of geometric imperfections for unbraced frames are proposed. The strengths predicted by these proposed methods are compared with those predicted by the exact plastic-zone method as well as the conventional load resistance factor design (LRFD) method. The displacement predictions are also compared with the plastic-zone solutions. Member sizes determined by the proposed methods are compared with those determined by the LRFD method. A good agreement is generally observed. The three proposed methods can be used for steel frame design subjected to weak-axis bending without tedious separate member capacity checks, including the calculations of K-factors. The methods are recommended for general use. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.