Plastic design is one of the most widely used methods for the design of portal frames and other low rise steel structures, as well as for continuous beams and other simple indeterminate structures. This book provides a complete summary of plastic theory, from elementary principles to the use of plastic theory as a practical tool in the design office. It examines plastic design and behaviour of main frames, both low rise industrial and
agricultural, and multi—storey.
Topics such as member stability, frame stability and restraints are covered in clear, detailed presentations, backed up by
numerous diagrams and worked examples.
The book recognises the increasing significance of the elastic critical load as a measure of the sensitivity of a structure to second order effects, and in so doing anticipates the requirements of Eurocode 3 which will become increasingly important for designers. Whilst much of the book is devoted to portal frames, it also includes what is believed to be the first complete plastic design procedure for multi—storey frames.
Combining a unique blend of theory and practice, the book provides both a complete university course to master level in the subject and all the practical methods required by designers. 'The structural steelwork community has been waiting for over a decade for an authoritative text explaining the plastic design provisions of BS 5950: Part 1 - it is now available.'