This study proposes simple technique for obtaining out of plane critical load of the compression member in cross bracing members. Nonlinear large displacement finite element analysis was performed using ANSYS program [10]. The results show that the geometrical properties of the member’s cross-sections, the ratio of the tension to compression loads induced in the members and the supporting conditions at their ends affect significantly the out of plane critical load value. The intersection connection of the two members is assumed to provide full continuity. An analytical simple model is used and modified to deal with symmetrical and unsymmetrical cross bracing members with different end conditions. The results obtained using this method show good agreement with those obtained from the finite element analysis. |
