Improved G‐Factor Method For Evaluating Effective Lengths of Columns

摘要: Design specifications for columns include nomographs calculating effective length factors. The method, which is simple to use, requires the designer evaluate G at each end of column, but only positive G‐factors result, and in case sway‐prevented structures, factors are always less than one. In practice, some may have values K greater one, corresponding negative G. This paper expands present graphical method so that correct set K‐values can be determined. An iterative procedure presented, based on linearized stability functions effectively account presence axial forces restraining members. improved G‐factor illustrated by numerical examples not, general, covered where beams assumed offer significant restraint.