STRUCTURAL STEEL DESIGN

Dr. Ammar A. Ali

3. Compression Members
Structural members that carry compressive loads are sometimes given names that identify
them as to their function. Compression members that serve as bracing are commonly called
struts. Other compression members may be called posts or pillars. Trusses are composed
of members that are in compression and members that are in tension. These may be either
chord or web members. The main vertical compression members in building frames are
called columns, which are of primary interest here.

Columns are compression members that have their length dimension considerabily longer
than their least cross-sectional dimensions.

Members considered here are subjected to axial loads (concentric loads), that is, the loads
are coincedent with the longitudenal centroidal axis of the member. This is a special case
and one that exists rarely. Where small eccentricities exist, however, it may be
assumedthat an appropraite factor of safety will compensate for the eccentricity, and the
column may be designed as ttough it were axially loaded. Columns may support varying
amounts of axial load and bending moment. If the range of possible combinations of load
and moment supported on columns, then at one end of the range is the axially loaded
column. This column carries no moment. At the other end of the range is the member that
carries only moment with no (or very little) axial load. (As a moment-carrying member, it
could be considered a beam). When a column carries both axial load and moment, it is
called a beam-column.

Commonly used cross sections for steel compression members include most of the rolled
shapes. These and other typical cross sections are shown in Fig. 3.1.

For the W shapes, the cross sections usually used are those that are rather square in shape
and that have nominal depths of 14 in. or less. These shapes are more efficient than others
for supporting compressive loads (the deeper shapes are more efficient when used as
bending members). For larger loads it is common to use a built-up cross section. In
addition to providing increased cross-sectional area, the built-up sections allow a designer
to tailor to specific needs the radius of gyration (r) values about x-x and y-y axes.

In dealing with compression members, the problem of stability is of great importance.

Unlike tension members, where the load tends to hold the members in alignment,
compression members are very sensitive to factors that may tend to cause lateral
displacements or buckling.

The buckling problem is intensified and the load-carrying capacity is affected by such
factors as eccentric load, imperfection of material, and initial crookedness of the member.
Also, reidual stresses play a role. These are the variable stresses that are “locked up” in
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