Effective length factors for the framed columns with variable stiffness

골조구성 변단면 기둥의 유효길이 계수

Effective length factor approach for framed column design has long played an important design-aid role. This approach, however, is effective only when the columns are in the form of prismatic or uniform cross sections. Structural engineers who have to design or analyse framed columns with variable cross sections need some means to do their job. By using the finite element method, the stability analysis of the isolated compression members with variable cross sections and that of the framed columns are performed. The parameters considered in the stability analysis are taper and sectional property parameters of the columns, the second moment of inertia ratio of beam to column, and beam span to column height ratio. On the basis of the stability analysis results, effective length factor formulas for the columns with variable sections are derived.