Steel Construction

Abstract

This course manual provides a comprehensive overview of calculation methods for steel constructions, contributing to the expanding body of resources on EUROCODE 3- compliant calculation techniques for steel structures. Explicitly designed for third-year civil engineering students, it aligns with the national curriculum guidelines of the L.M.D. Academic Program, National Program for 2021–2022 (second update). As an introduction and a reference, it equips students with the terminology, foundational principles, and calculation techniques needed in steel construction analysis and design. The manual is organised into four detailed chapters, each focusing on critical aspects of structural analysis and stability for steel members; the first Chapter, “Phenomena of Elastic Instabilities,” introduces the concept of elastic instability, examining how slender structural elements under certain conditions can experience sudden and large deformations due to instability. Students are introduced to different forms of elastic instability, including lateral-torsional, flexural, and global instability. The Chapter explores the theoretical underpinnings of these phenomena, guiding students to understand when and why elastic instability may occur and providing insights into designing structures that prevent such behaviour. The second Chapter, “Calculations for Members Subjected to Simple Compression,” Focuses on compression members and delves into the principles and formulas for analysing steel members under axial compressive loads. Topics include calculating compressive resistance, factors influencing steel members’ compressive capacity, and applying EUROCODE 3 rules in practical cases. Students learn to determine the safety and stability of columns and other structural members experiencing direct compression through examples and exercises. The third Chapter, “Calculations for Members Under Combined Buckling,” addresses the complexities of members subjected to combined bending and compression, where the potential for instability increases due to the interaction of forces. Concepts such as effective length, critical stress, and buckling curves are covered in depth. The Chapter guides students through applying buckling calculations to structures subject to complex load scenarios, emphasising the methods for predicting and mitigating risks associated with combined buckling.

The final Chapter, “Lateral Torsional Buckling in Steel Members,” examines lateral- torsional buckling, which occurs when a steel member bends about a weak axis while simultaneously twisting. This Chapter covers the causes and consequences of lateral- torsional buckling, emphasising factors such as cross-section shape, loading type, and length. Students are introduced to calculation methods and design strategies to counteract lateral-torsional buckling, using guidelines from EUROCODE 3 to inform safe and effective structural designs. Each Chapter contains practical examples, step-by-step calculations, and exercises designed to reinforce students’ understanding and skills in applying these methods to real- world structural analysis challenges. By the end of the manual, students will have a solid foundation in assessing the stability and safety of steel structures, preparing them for more advanced courses and professional practice in civil engineering.