Influence of the assumed effective length factor on the load carrying capacity of steel angles in compression

Single angle compression members are usually attached by one leg only. In Canada it is common practice when designing such members to neglect the end eccentricities, to assume the angle buckles about the minor principal axis, and to assume an effective length factor of 1.0. Clause 13.3.1 of S16.1 is then used to calculate the compressive resistance. An experimental program was undertaken to determine the effect that the assumed effective length factor has on the compressive resistance of such angles. Eighteen specimens were tested in which the angles were slender or of intermediate length. The effective length factor was assumed to be 1.0, 0.9, or 0.5. It was determined that when there is substantial restraint at the ends of the angles the assumed effective length factor has a very significant effect on the compressive resistance of an angle attached by one leg.