CE 315

Structural Theory
Approximate Analysis of Indeterminate Frames

Prepared by:
Rolls Grant Vasquez
Civil/Structural Engineer
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 Approximate Analysis of Structures
In this module we will present some of the approximate methods used to analyze statically
indeterminate frames. These methods were developed on the basis of structural behavior, and their
accuracy in most cases compares favorably with more exact methods of analysis. Although not all
types of structural forms will be discussed here, it is hoped that enough insight is gained from the study
of these methods so that one can judge what would be the best approximations to make when
performing no approximate force analysis of a statically indeterminate structure.

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 Approximate Analysis of Frames
• Due to Vertical Loads
• Due to Lateral Loads
• Portal Method
• Cantilever Method

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 Vertical Loads on Frames
Building frames often consist of girders that are rigidly connected to columns so
that the entire structure is better able to resist the effects of lateral forces due to
wind and earthquake. An example of such a rigid framework, often called a building
bent, is shown in the figure.

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 An exact analysis reveals that for this case
inflection points, or points of zero moments,
occur at 0.21L from each support.

If, however, the column connections at A

and B are very flexible, then like a simply
supported beam, zero moment will occur
at the supports,

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In reality, however, the columns will provide some flexibility at the supports,
and therefore we will assume that zero moments occurs at the average point
between the two extremes, i.e., at (0.21L + 0)/2 = 0.1L from each support

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 The following three assumptions are incorporated in this model:
1. There is zero moment in the girder, 0.1L from the left support.
2. There is zero moment in the girder, 0.1L from the right support.
3. The girder does not support an axial force.

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 Problem 1

Solve the frame shown approximately. Determine

the following:

1) Maximum Positive Moment at Girder EF, kN-m

2) Maximum Negative Moment at Girder EF, kN-m
3) Vertical Reaction at A, kN
4) Moment Reaction at B, kN-m
5) Axial, Shear, and Moment Diagram of the Frame

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 Problem 2
Solve the frame shown approximately. Determine the following:

1) Maximum Positive Moment at FG

2) Moment Reaction at B
3) Vertical Reaction at C

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 Seatwork
Solve the frame shown approximately. Use ABC as the last three digits of your student number
(i.e., Student number 2110866: AB=86 kN/m, BC = 66 kN/m)

Determine the following:

1) Moment Reactions at A, B, and C
2) Vertical Reactions at A, B, and C
3) Draw the Axial, Shear, and Moment Diagram of the frame

Indicate Student number in the upper right part of your paper

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 Lateral Loads on Frames – Portal Method
• Developed by A. Smith in 1915
• Considered appropriate for the approximate analysis of relatively low building frames
• Inflection points occur at midpoint of girders and columns
• On each story of the frame, interior columns carry twice as much as shear as exterior columns

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 Problem 1
Solve the frame shown approximately using portal method. Determine the reactions at the
support. Draw also the axial, shear and moment diagram

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 Problem 2
Solve the frame shown approximately using portal method. Determine the following:
a) Shear at column EB
b) Axial force at column FC
c) Moment at support A

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 Lateral Loads on Frames – Cantilever

• Developed by A.C. Wilson in 1908

• Considered appropriate for the approximate analysis of
relatively tall buildings
• Inflection points occur at midpoint of girders and columns
• On each story of the frame, the axial forces in columns are
linearly proportional to their distances from the centroid of
the cross-sectional areas of all the columns

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 Problem 1
Solve the frame shown approximately using cantilever method. Assume all areas of columns are equal
Determine the following:
a) Shear at column EB
b) Axial force at column FC
c) Moment at support A

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 Seatwork (by Pair)
Solve the frame shown approximately using cantilever method. Use areas of columns as
shown. Draw the FBD and indicate the shear, axial and moment of each joint. Use AB1 as
the last two digits of student number #1 and AB2 as the last two digits of student number #2
(Student #1 and #2 are determined alphabetically)

AB1

AB2

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