DESIGN STRENGTH OF

TENSION MEMBERS
 Design Strength of Tension Members

The factored design tension T, in the members shall satisfy the

following requirement (Clause 6.1, IS:800-2007) :

T < Td

Where Td = design strength of the member under axial tension.

Td is the lowest of the design strength due to the

(i) yielding of gross-section, Tdg ,

(ii) rupture of critical section Tdn and
(iii) block shear failure, Tdb.
 Design Strength due to Yielding of Gross-section
The design strength of the member under axial tension,
Tdg as governed by yielding of gross section is given by
(Clause 6.2, IS 800: 2007)

Tdg = Agfy /m0

Where,
fy is the yield stress of material in MPa,
Ag is the gross area of cross-section
m0 is the partial safety factor of failure in tension by
yielding (Table 5, IS 800: 2007)
 Design Strength Due to Rupture of Critical Section

Plates
The design strength in tension of a plate, Tdn as
governed by rupture of net cross-sectional area, An , at
the holes is given by (Cl. 6.3.1, IS 800: 2007)

Tdn = 0.9Anfu /m1

Where,
fu is the ultimate stress of material in MPa,
An is the net effective area of cross-section
m1 is the partial safety factor of failure in tension at
ultimate stress (Table 5, IS 800: 2007)
Threaded Rods
The design strength of threaded rods in tension, Tdn as
governed by rupture is given by (Cl. 6.3.2, IS 800: 2007)
Tdn = 0.9Anfu /m1
Where,
An is the net root area at the threaded section

Single Angles
The rupture strength of an angle connected through
one leg is affected by Shear Lag. The design strength, Tdn as
governed by rupture at net section is given by
(Cl. 6.3.3, IS 800: 2007):

Tdn = 0.9Ancfu /m1 + Agofy /m0

Where,
= 1.4 – 0.076 (w/t) (fy /fu) (bs /Lc)  fum0 /fym1
 0.7
Here, w = outstanding leg width,

bs = shear lag width, as shown in figure below.

Angles with single leg connection (Fig. 6, IS 800: 2007)

LC = length of the end connection, that is the distance between the

outermost bolts in the end joint measured along the load direction or
length of the weld along the load direction.
For preliminary sizing, the rupture strength of net section may be
approximately taken as:

Tdn =  Anfu /m1

Here,  = 0.6 for one or two bolts, 0.7 for three bolts
and 0.8 for four or more bolts along the length in the end
connection or equivalent weld length;

An = net area of the total cross-section;

Anc = net area of the connected leg;
Ago = gross area of the outstanding leg; and
t = thickness of the leg.
Other Section (Clause 6.3.4)

The rupture strength, Tdn , of the double angles, channels, I-

sections and other rolled steel sections, connected by one or
more elements to an end gusset is also governed by shear lag
effects. The design tensile strength of such sections as
governed by tearing of net section may also be calculated
using equation in Cl. 6.3.3, IS 800: 2007, where  is
calculated based on the shear lag distance bs , taken from the
furthest edge of the outstanding leg to the nearest bolt/weld
line in the connected leg of the cross section.
 Design Strength due to Block Shear
(Cl. 6.4, IS 800: 2007)

The strength as governed by block shear at an end

connection of plates and angles is calculated as follows:

Bolted Connections
The block shear strength, Tdb of connection shall be
taken as the smaller of,
Tdb = Avgfy /3m0 + 0.9Atnfu/m1 (For tension fracture and shear yield)
or
Tdb = 0.9Avnfu /3m1 + Atgfy /m0 (For tension yield and shear fracture)
 Block shear failure (Fig. 7, IS 800: 2007)
where
Avg and Avn = minimum gross and net area in shear along bolt line
parallel to external force, respectively (1-2 & 3-4 as shown in Fig.
7A and 1-2 as shown in Fig. 7B)
Atg and Atn= minimum gross and net area in tension from the bolt
hole to the toe of the angle, end bolt line, perpendicular to the line
of force, respectively (2-3 as shown in Fig. 7B), and fu and fy =
ultimate and yield stress of the material, respectively.
Welded Connection
The block shear strength, Tdb shall be checked for welded end
connections by taking an appropriate section in the member around
the end weld, which can shear off as a block.

Slenderness Ratio
The slenderness ratio is the ratio of unsupported length and least
radius of gyration. Theoretically there should not be any upper
limit of the slenderness ratio for a tension member as stability is of
little importance. However, a tension member may be subjected to
reversal force like wind, earthquake etc. Also, the limitation is
necessary to prevent undesirable vibration and lateral movement.
For this, IS 800-2007 code (clause 3.8, Table 3) has specified the
maximum values of effective slenderness ratio.
Maximum effective slenderness ratio (Table 3, IS 800: 2007)

Member Maximum effective

slenderness ratio
A tension member in which a reversal of direct 180
stress occurs due to loads other than wind or
seismic forces
A member subjected to compressive forces 250
resulting only from a combination of
wind/earthquake actions, provided the deformation
of such a member does not adversely affect the
stresses in any part of the structure.
A member normally acting as a tie in a roof truss or 350
a bracing member which is not considered effective
when subjected to reversal of stress resulting from
the action of wind or earthquake forces
Members always in tension (other than pre- 400
tensioned members)
STRENGTH CALCULATION OF
TENSION MEMBERS
Example:
Two ISA 75×50×8 are connected to a gusset plate on its same side
of thickness 10mm by four M18 grade 4.6 bolts. Find the design
tensile strength of the angle if (1) gusset is connected to the longer
leg (2) gusset is connected to the shorter leg.

75
ISA
T 18 ф 75x50x8
bolt
75

30 50 50 50 30
Solution:
(1) Gusset connected to the longer leg
2 ISA 75 × 50 × 8 connected back to back with its longer
length.
Thus, the gross area will be Ag = 2 × 938 = 1876 mm2
Strength due to yielding of gross section:
𝑓𝑦 ×𝐴𝑔 250×1876
𝑇𝑑𝑔 = = = 426.36 × 103 N = 426.36 kN
𝛾𝑚0 1.1
Dia. of bolt = 18 mm
Dia. of hole = 18+2 = 20
Let us assume pitch distance = 50 mm , edge distance = 30 mm
Strength governed by rupture of net section:
Anc = (75 - 8/2 - 20) × 8 = 408 mm2
Ago = (50 - 8/2) × 8 = 368 mm2
An = 408 + 368 = 776 mm2
𝑏𝑠 𝑤 𝑓𝑦 50:40;8 50 250
𝛽= 1.4 − 0.076 × × = 1 .4 − 0.076 × × ×
𝐿𝑐 𝑡 𝑓𝑢 3×50 8 410

= 1.242
𝑓𝑢 𝛾𝑚0
Again, 𝛽 ≤ and ≥ 0.7
𝑓𝑦 𝛾𝑚1

𝑓𝑢 𝛾𝑚0 410 × 1.1

= = 1.443
𝑓𝑦 𝛾𝑚1 250 × 1.25
Thus, satisfying above criteria, 𝛽 = 1.242
 0.9𝑓𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑐 𝛽𝑓𝑦 𝐴𝑔𝑜 0.9×410×408 1.242×250×368
𝑇𝑑𝑛 = + = + = 224.31 × 103 N =
𝛾𝑚1 𝛾𝑚0 1.25 1.1
224.31 kN
So, the strength due to rupture for two angles = 2 × 224.31 = 448.62 kN
𝛼×𝐴𝑛 ×𝑓𝑢 0.8×776×410
Alternatively, 𝑇𝑑𝑛 = 2 × = 2× = 407kN
𝛾𝑚1 1.25

Strength governed by block shear:

Avg = 8 × (3 × 50 + 30) = 1440 mm2
Avn = 8 × (3 × 50 + 30 – 3.5 × 20)= 880 mm2`
Atg = 8 × 35= 280 mm2
[as gauge g = 40 for 75 mm leg; p = 75 – 40 = 35]
Atn = 8 × (35 – 0.5 × 20) = 200 mm2
0.9𝐴𝑣𝑛 𝑓𝑢 𝑓𝑦 𝐴𝑡𝑔 0.9×410×880 250×280
𝑇𝑑𝑏1 = + = + = 213.62 × 103 N = 213.62
3𝛾𝑚1 𝛾𝑚0 3×1.25 1.1
kN
Thus, Tdb1 for both the angle will be:
2 × 213.62 kN = 427.24 kN.
𝐴𝑣𝑔 𝑓𝑦 0.9 𝑓𝑢 𝐴𝑡𝑛 1440×250 0.9×410×200
𝑇𝑑𝑏2 = + = +
3𝛾𝑚0 𝛾𝑚1 3×1.1 1.25

= 248 × 103 N = 248 kN

So, Tdb2 for both the angle will be: 2 × 248 kN = 496 kN.
Thus, the block shear, Tdb = 427.24 kN
Design tensile strength of angle will be least of Tdg , Tdn and Tdb
(426.36 kN, 448.62 kN and 427.24 kN) = 426.36 kN
(2) Gusset connected to the shorter leg
Strength due to yielding of gross section:
𝑓𝑦 ×𝐴𝑔 250×1876
𝑇𝑑𝑔 = = = 426.36 × 103 N = 426.36 kN
𝛾𝑚0 1.1
Dia. of bolt = 18 mm
Dia. of hole = 18+2 = 20
Let us assume pitch distance = 50 mm , end distance = 30 mm.
Assuming gauge length for 50 mm leg = 25 mm
Strength governed by rupture of net section:
Anc = (50 - 8/2 - 20) × 8 = 208 mm2
Ago = (75 - 8/2) × 8 = 568mm2
An = 208 + 568 = 776 mm2
 𝑏𝑠 𝑤 𝑓𝑦 75:25;8 75 250
𝛽 = 1.4 − 0.076 × × = 1 .4 − 0.076 × × × = 1.133
𝐿𝑐 𝑡 𝑓𝑢 3×50 8 410

𝑓𝑢 𝛾𝑚0
Again, 𝛽 ≤ and ≥ 0.7
𝑓𝑦 𝛾𝑚1

𝑓𝑢 𝛾𝑚0 410 × 1.1

= = 1.443
𝑓𝑦 𝛾𝑚1 250 × 1.25
Thus, satisfying above criteria, 𝛽 = 1.133
0.9𝑓𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑐 𝛽𝑓𝑦 𝐴𝑔𝑜 0.9×410×208 1.133×250×568
𝑇𝑑𝑛 = + = + = 207.661 × 103 N =
𝛾𝑚1 𝛾𝑚0 1.25 1.1
207.66 kN
So, the strength due to rupture for two angles = 2 × 207.66 = 415.32 kN

𝛼×𝐴𝑛 ×𝑓𝑢 0.8×776×410

Alternatively, 𝑇𝑑𝑛 = 2 × = 2× = 407kN
𝛾𝑚1 1.25
Strength governed by block shear:
Avg = 8 × (3 × 50 + 30) = 1440 mm2
Avn = 8 × (3 × 50 + 30 – 3.5 × 20)= 880 mm2`
Atg = 8 × 25 = 200 mm2
[as gauge g = 25 for 50 mm leg; p = 50 – 25 = 25]
Atn = 8 × (25 – 0.5 × 20) = 120 mm2
0.9𝐴𝑣𝑛 𝑓𝑢 𝑓𝑦 𝐴𝑡𝑔 0.9×410×880 250×200
𝑇𝑑𝑏1 = + = + = 195.43 × 103 N =
3𝛾𝑚1 𝛾𝑚0 3×1.25 1.1
195.43 kN
Thus, Tdb1 for both the angle will be: 2 × 195.43 kN = 390.86 kN.
𝐴𝑣𝑔 𝑓𝑦 0.9 𝑓𝑢 𝐴𝑡𝑛 1440×250 0.9×410×120
𝑇𝑑𝑏2 = + = + = 224.37 × 103 N
3𝛾𝑚0 𝛾𝑚1 3×1.1 1.25
= 224.37 kN
So, Tdb2 for both the angle will be: 2 × 224.37 kN = 448.74
kN.
Thus, the block shear, Tdb = 390.86 kN
Design tensile strength of angle will be least of Tdg , Tdn and
Tdb (426.36 kN, 415.32 kN and 390.86 kN) = 390.86 kN

(1) gusset is connected to the longer leg, Td = 426.36 kN

(2) gusset is connected to the shorter leg, Td = 390.86 kN

STRENGTH OF TENSION MEMBERS
WITH WELD CONNECTION
Example:
An ISA 90×60×6 angle of Fe 410 grade steel is connected to a 10
mm thick gusset plate by weld as shown in the figure below.
Calculate the design tensile strength of the angle if gusset is
connected to the (a) longer leg (b) shorter leg.

75 75
ISA 90 x 60 x 6
ISA 90 x 60 x 6
90 T 60 T

75
75
Solution:
(a) Gusset is connected to longer leg
Gross area, Ag for ISA 90 × 60 × 6 = 865 mm2. [From IS hand book:
SP:6(1)-1964]
The net area of connected leg, Anc = (90 - 6/2) × 6 = 522 mm2
Gross area of outstanding leg, Ago = (60 - 6/2) × 6 = 342 mm2
(i) Tensile strength governed by yielding of gross section:
[Clause 6.2]
𝑓𝑦 ×𝐴𝑔 250×865
𝑇𝑑𝑔 = = × 10−3 = 196.6 kN
𝛾𝑚0 1.1
(ii) Tensile strength governed by rupture of net section:
Therefore, the length of outstanding leg will be, w = 60 mm.
So, the shear lag width, bs = 60 mm.
The average length of weld along the direction of load
= Lc = (75+75) /2= 75 mm. Thus,
𝑏𝑠 𝑤 𝑓𝑦
𝛽= 1.4 − 0.076 × ×
𝐿𝑐 𝑡 𝑓𝑢
60 60 250
= 1.4 – 0.076× × × = 1.029
75 6 410
𝑓𝑢 𝛾𝑚0
Again, 𝛽 ≤ and ≥ 0.7
𝑓𝑦 𝛾𝑚1

𝑓𝑢 𝛾𝑚0 410 × 1.1

= = 1.443
𝑓𝑦 𝛾𝑚1 250 × 1.25
Thus, satisfying above criteria, 𝛽 = 1.029
0.9𝑓𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑐 𝛽𝑓𝑦 𝐴𝑔𝑜
𝑇𝑑𝑛 = +
𝛾𝑚1 𝛾𝑚0
0.9×410×522 1.029×250×342
So, 𝑇𝑑𝑛 = + = 234× 103 N = 234 kN
1.25 1.1
 𝛼×𝐴𝑛 ×𝑓𝑢
Alternatively, 𝑇𝑑𝑛 =
𝛾𝑚1

Here, An =Anc +Ago = 522+342=864 mm2

0.8×864×410
Thus, 𝑇𝑑𝑛 = = 226.71 × 103 N = 226.7 kN
1.25
(iii) Tensile strength governed by block shear:
Assuming average length of weld on each side as 75 mm
Avg = 2 × 75 × 10 = 1500 mm2 [As gusset plate thickness = 10 mm]
Avn = 2 × 75 × 10 = 1500 mm2
Atg = 90 × 10 = 900 mm2
Atn = 90 × 10 = 900 mm2
 𝐴𝑣𝑔 𝑓𝑦 0.9 𝑓𝑢 𝐴𝑡𝑛 1500×250 0.9×410×900
𝑇𝑑𝑏1 = + = +
3𝛾𝑚0 𝛾𝑚1 3×1.1 1.25

= 462.5 kN
0.9𝐴𝑣𝑛 𝑓𝑢 𝑓𝑦 𝐴𝑡𝑔 0.9×1500×410 250×900
𝑇𝑑𝑏2 = + = +
3𝛾𝑚1 𝛾𝑚0 3×1.25 1.1

= 460.2 kN
So, Tdb = 460.2 kN
Thus, the design tensile strength of the angle = least of (i), (ii)
and (iii) = 196.6 kN.
(b) Gusset connected to shorter leg
The net area of connected leg, Anc = (60 - 6/2) × 6 = 342 mm2
Gross area of outstanding leg, Ago = (90 - 6/2) × 6 = 522 mm2
Net cross sectional area, An = 522 + 342 = 864 mm2

i) Tensile strength governed by yielding of gross section:

𝑓𝑦 ×𝐴𝑔 250×865
𝑇𝑑𝑔 = = × 10−3 = 196.6 kN
𝛾𝑚0 1.1

(ii) Tensile strength governed by rupture of net section:

Here, the section is connected through its shorter leg.
Therefore, the length of outstanding leg will be, w = 90 mm.
So, the shear lag width, bs = 90 mm.
The average length of weld along the direction of load
= Lc = (75+75) /2= 75 mm. Thus,
𝑏𝑠 𝑤 𝑓𝑦
𝛽= 1.4 − 0.076 × ×
𝐿𝑐 𝑡 𝑓𝑢
90 90 250
= 1.4 – 0.076× × × = 0.566
75 6 410
𝑓𝑢 𝛾𝑚0
Again, 𝛽 ≤ and ≥ 0.7
𝑓𝑦 𝛾𝑚1

𝑓𝑢 𝛾𝑚0 410 × 1.1

= = 1.443
𝑓𝑦 𝛾𝑚1 250 × 1.25
Thus, satisfying above criteria, 𝛽 = 0.7
0.9𝑓𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑐 𝛽𝑓𝑦 𝐴𝑔𝑜
𝑇𝑑𝑛 = +
𝛾𝑚1 𝛾𝑚0
0.9×410×342 0.7×250×522
So, 𝑇𝑑𝑛 = + = 184 kN
1.25 1.1
 𝛼×𝐴𝑛 ×𝑓𝑢 0.8×864×410
Alternatively, 𝑇𝑑𝑛 = = = 226.7 kN
𝛾𝑚1 1.25

(iii) Tensile strength governed by block shear:

Avg = 2 × 75 × 10 = 1500 mm2
Avn = 2 × 75 × 10 = 1500 mm2
Atg = 60 × 10 = 600 mm2
Atn = 60 × 10 = 600 mm2

𝐴𝑣𝑔 𝑓𝑦 0.9 𝑓𝑢 𝐴𝑡𝑛 1500×250 0.9×410×600

𝑇𝑑𝑏1 = + = +
3𝛾𝑚0 𝛾𝑚1 3×1.1 1.25

= 373.9 kN
 0.9𝐴𝑣𝑛 𝑓𝑢 𝑓𝑦 𝐴𝑡𝑔 0.9×1500×410 250×600
𝑇𝑑𝑏2 = + = +
3𝛾𝑚1 𝛾𝑚0 3×1.25 1.1

= 392 kN
So, Tdb = 373.9 kN

Thus, the design tensile strength of the angle = least of (i), (ii) and
(iii) = least of (196.36, 184 and 373.9 ) = 184 kN.
STEPS FOR DESIGN OF
TENSION MEMBERS
Steps to design tension members
1. Find the gross area required to carry the given factored load (Tu)
considering the strength in yielding from the following
expression.
𝑻𝒖 ×𝜸𝒎𝟎
𝑨𝒈 =
𝒇𝒚
2. Select a suitable shape of section depending on the type of
structure and location of the member such that the gross area is more
than the gross area obtained in step 1.
Note:
Usually if the minimum edge and pitch distance is maintained, strength in yielding gives
least value. So, the design will be safe if gross area provided is greater than the gross area
required.

3. Determine the number of bolts or the welding length required and

suitably arrange the bolts.
Steps to design tension members

4. Find the strength considering

 Yielding of gross section (Tdg)
 Rupture at critical section (Tdn)
 Strength in block shear(Tdb)

5. If any of the above strength (Tdg, Tdn and Tdb) become less than
the factored tensile force (Tu), increase the size of the section and
repeat from step 3.
Steps to design tension members

6. Also, if the design strength (minimum of Tdg, Tdn and Tdb in

step 4. is too high compare to the factored load (Tu), decrease the
section size suitably and repeat from step 3.

7. Check for the slenderness ratio of the member as per Table 3,

IS 800: 2007. If the value of slenderness ratio exceeds the value
given in code, then increase the size of the section and redesign.
GUI based MATLAB Algorithm
Design is done for single angle sections with bolted connections.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Inputs:
Factored load 180.000 kN
Length of tension member 2500 mm
Allowable slenderness ratio 350.00
Type of section unequal with Connected leg larger
Ultimate stress of steel 410.000 N/mm^2
Yield stress of steel 250.000 N/mm^2
Partial safety factor governed by:
Ultimate stress(ym1) 1.250
Yielding(ym0) 1.100
Ultimate strength of bolt 400.000 N/mm^2
Diameter of bolt 20.000 mm
Partial safety factor for Bolt 1.250

-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Output:
Required area of cross section area is 792.000 mm^2.

Test Case 1:
Section chosen is ISA 65 x 45 x 8 with combined cross section area 817.000
mm^2.
Shearing strength of one bolt is 45.274 kN.
Bearing strength of one bolt is 59.636 kN.
Number of bolt = Factored load/minimum of 45.274 and 59.636
Number of bolts for this factored load is 4

• Gross section yielding:

Tdg = Ag x fy/ym0
Tdg = 185.682 kN.

• Check for net section rupture:

alpha = 0.8 calculated from number of bolts
An = 640.000 mm^2
Tdn = alpha x An x fu/ym1
Tdn = 167.936 kN
As Tdn<Factored load, taking other section.....
Test Case 2:

Section chosen is ISA 70 x 45 x 8 with combined cross section area 858.000 mm^2.
Shearing strength of one bolt is 45.274 kN.
Bearing strength of one bolt is 59.636 kN.
Number of bolt = Factored load/minimum of 45.274 and 59.636
Number of bolts for this factored load is 4

• Gross section yielding:

Tdg = Ag x fy/ym0
Tdg = 195.000 kN.

• Check for net section rupture:

alpha = 0.8 calculated from number of bolts
An = 680.000 mm^2
Tdn = alpha x An x fu/ym1
Tdn = 178.432 kN
As Tdn<Factored load, taking other section.....
Test Case 3:

Section chosen is ISA 90 x 60 x 6 with combined cross section area 865.000

mm^2.
Shearing strength of one bolt is 45.274 kN.
Bearing strength of one bolt is 44.727 kN.
Number of bolt = Factored load/minimum of 45.274 and 44.727
Number of bolts for this factored load is 5

• Gross section yielding:

Tdg = Ag x fy/ym0
Tdg = 196.591 kN.

• Check for net section rupture:

alpha = 0.8 calculated from number of bolts
An = 732.000 mm^2
Tdn = alpha x An x fu/ym1
Tdn = 192.077 kN
Test Case 3:

• Block shear failure:

Maximum and minimum values of gauge distance calculated is 23.00 mm and
79.00 mm respectively.
avg=1380.000 mm^2
avn=786.000 mm^2
atn=138.000 mm^2
atg=204.000 mm^2
Td1 = Avg x fy/root(3) x ym0 + 0.9Atn x fu/ym1
Td2 = 0.9Avn x fu/root(3) x ym1 + Atg x fy/ym0
Tdb1 = 221.821 kN
Tdb2 = 180.329 kN

• Check for Slenderness ratio:

lamda = 2500/12.8 = 195 <350; so OK.

Hence the chosen section ISA 90 x 60 x 6 is OK and

OPTIMUM one under the present load and configuration.
If the connection is fillet weld:
Design is done for single angle sections with welded connections.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Inputs:
Factored load 180.000 kN
Length of tension member 2500.000 mm
Allowable slenderness ratio 350.00
Type of section unequal with Connected leg larger
Ultimate stress of steel 410.000 N/mm^2
Yield stress of steel 250.000 N/mm^2
Partial safety factor governed by:
Ultimate stress(ym1) 1.250
Yielding(ym0) 1.100
Throat thickness of weld 3.500 mm
Partial safety factor of weld 1.250
Weld is distributed on two sides parallel to axis to the load

-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Output:
Required area of cross section area is 792.000 mm^2.
Strength of weld per mm = throat thickness of weld x fu/(root(3) x ymw)
Strength of weld per mm = 0.663 kN
Total weld required in mm = factored load/strength of weld per mm
Total weld = 272.000 mm

Test Case 1:

Section chosen is ISA 65 x 45 x 8 with combined cross section area 817.000

mm^2 and centre of gravity is 21.900 mm above the base of its unconnected leg.

Minimum length of weld at the upper side of the angle = factored load x centre of
gravity/(weld per length x length of connected leg
Minimum length of weld at the upper side of the angle,lw1 = 92.000 mm
Minimum length of weld at the lower side of the angle,lw2 = 272.000-92.000 =
180.000 mm
• Gross section yielding:
Tdg = Ag x fy/ym0
Tdg = 185.682 kN.

• Check for net section rupture:

alpha = 0.8
An = 816.000 mm^2
Tdn = alpha x An x fu/ym1 = 214.118 kN

• Block shear failure:

avg=2880.000 mm^2; avn=2880.000 mm^2
atn=520.000 mm^2; atg=520.000 mm^2

Td1 = Avg x fy/root(3) x ym0 + 0.9Atn x fu/ym1

Td2 = 0.9Avn x fu/root(3) x ym1 + Atg x fy/ym0
Tdb1 = 531.417 kN; Tdb2 = 609.046 kN

• Check for Slenderness ratio:

lamda = 2500/12.5 = 200 < 350 OK
Hence the chosen section ISA 65 x 45 x 8 is OK under the present load and
configuration.
Example:
A tension member 3 m long carries a factored tensile load of 200
kN. Design a suitable single angle unequal section when
connection is made with (i) 20 mm diameter bolts of grade 4.6
and (ii) fillet weld. Assume longer leg to be connected with plate.
Solution:
Step 1:
𝑃 200×103
Approximate gross area required = 𝐴𝑔 = = = 880 mm2
𝑓𝑦 /𝛾𝑚0 250/1.1

Let use ISA 75 × 50 × 10 with gross area, Ag as 1152 mm2

Anc = (75 - 10/2 - 22) × 10 = 480 mm2
Ago = (50 - 10/2) × 10 = 450 mm2
An = 480 + 450 = 930 mm2
Design strength due to yielding of gross section
𝑓𝑦 ×𝐴𝑔 250×1152
𝑇𝑑𝑔 = = = 261.8 × 103 N = 261.8 kN > 200 kN;
𝛾𝑚0 1.1

so ok.
DESIGN CALCULATION FOR
TENSION MEMBERS
Example:
A tension member 3 m long carries a factored tensile load of 200
kN. Design a suitable single angle unequal section when
connection is made with (i) 20 mm diameter bolts of grade 4.6
and (ii) fillet weld. Assume longer leg to be connected with plate.
Solution (Connected with bolts):
Step 1:
𝑃 200×103
Approximate gross area required = 𝐴𝑔 = = = 880 mm2
𝑓𝑦 /𝛾𝑚0 250/1.1

Let use ISA 75 × 50 × 10 with gross area, Ag as 1152 mm2

Anc = (75 - 10/2 - 22) × 10 = 480 mm2
Ago = (50 - 10/2) × 10 = 450 mm2
An = 480 + 450 = 930 mm2
Design strength due to yielding of gross section
𝑓𝑦 ×𝐴𝑔 250×1152
𝑇𝑑𝑔 = = = 261.8 × 103 N = 261.8 kN > 200 kN;
𝛾𝑚0 1.1

so ok.
Step 2:

a) For bolt connection

Cross sectional area of 20 mm diameter bolt
= 0.78 × π/4 × 202 = 245 mm2.
𝑓𝑢𝑏
𝑛𝑛 𝐴𝑛𝑏 :𝑛𝑠 𝐴𝑠𝑏
3
Shear strength of M20 bolt in single shear = =
𝛾𝑚𝑏
(400/√3)×(1×245)
1.25
= 45.3 × 103 N = 45.3 kN
Bearing strength of bolts = 2.5 × d × t × kb × fub/γmb
Here, thickness of the angle is 10 mm;
Let the edge distance = 30 mm and pitch = 50 mm
Thus, kb = lesser of [30/(3 × 22), 50/(3 × 22) - 0.25, 400/410, 1]
= 0.454
Bearing strength of bolt = 2.5 × 20 × 10 × 0.454 × 400/1.25 =
72.64 × 103 N = 72.64 kN
So bolt value = 45.3 kN
Step 3:
No. of bolts required = 200/45.3 = 4.4
Thus, use 5 bolts of 20 mm diameter in one line at pitch of 50
mm and edge distance of 30 mm.
Step 4:
Design strength governed by rupture of net section
Here, length of outstanding leg is: w = 50 mm and w1 = 40 mm.
So the shear lag width, bs = w + w1 – t = 50 + 40 – 10 = 80 mm.
Distance between end bolts , Lc = 4 × 50 = 200 mm.
𝑏 𝑤 𝑓𝑦 80 50 250
𝛽= 1.4 − 0.076 𝑠 × × = 1 .4 − 0.076 × × = 1.307
𝐿𝑐 𝑡 𝑓𝑢 200 10 410
𝑓𝑢 𝛾𝑚0
Again, 𝛽 ≤ and ≥ 0.7
𝑓𝑦 𝛾𝑚1

𝑓𝑢 𝛾𝑚0 410 × 1.1

= = 1.443
𝑓𝑦 𝛾𝑚1 250 × 1.25
Thus, satisfying above criteria, 𝛽 = 1.307
 0.9𝑓𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑐 𝛽𝑓𝑦 𝐴𝑔𝑜 0.9×410×480 1.307×250×450
𝑇𝑑𝑛 = + = +
𝛾𝑚1 𝛾𝑚0 1.25 1.1

= 275.37× 103 N = 275.37 kN

𝛼×𝐴𝑛 ×𝑓𝑢 0.8×930×410
Also, 𝑇𝑑𝑛 = = = 244 × 103 N = 244 kN
𝛾𝑚1 1.25

Design strength governed by block shear

Avg = 10 × (4 × 50 + 30) = 2300 mm2
Avn = 10 × (4 × 50 + 30 – 4.5 × 22) = 1310 mm2
Atg = 10 × 40 = 400 mm2
[assuming gauge g = 35 for 75 mm leg; p = 75 – 35 = 40]
Atn = 10 × (40 – 0.5 × 22) = 290 mm2
 0.9𝐴𝑣𝑛 𝑓𝑢 𝑓𝑦 𝐴𝑡𝑔 0.9×1310×410 250×400
𝑇𝑑𝑏1 = + = + = 314.2 kN
3𝛾𝑚1 𝛾𝑚0 3×1.25 1.1
𝐴𝑣𝑔 𝑓𝑦 0.9 𝑓𝑢 𝐴𝑡𝑛 2300×250 0.9×410×290
𝑇𝑑𝑏2 = + = + = 387.4 kN
3𝛾𝑚0 𝛾𝑚1 3×1.1 1.25

So, Tdb = 314.2 kN

Thus, the design tensile strength of angle = 261.8 kN > 200 kN.
Hence, the selected angle is safe.
Again, the minimum radius of gyration (rmin) of the angle ISA
75×50×10 = 10.6 mm
The maximum slenderness ratio, λmax = Leff / rmin = 3 × 103 / 10.6 =
283 < 350.
So the angle is safe.
Solution (Connected with fillet weld):
(a) Strength due to yielding of gross section
𝑃 200×1000
Approximate area required = 𝐴𝑔 = = = 880 mm2
𝑓𝑦 /𝛾𝑚0 250/1.1

Use ISA 75 × 50 × 10 with Ag = 1152 mm2 and cx = 26 mm

Anc = (75 - 10/2) × 10 = 700 mm2
Ago = (50 - 10/2) × 10 = 450 mm2
𝑓𝑦 ×𝐴𝑔 250×1152
𝑇𝑑𝑔 = = = 261.8 × 103 N = 261.8 kN > 200 kN;
𝛾𝑚0 1.1

so section is safe.

(b) Strength governed by rupture of net section

Here, shear lag width, bs = 50 mm. Assuming average weld length,
Lw as 165 mm
 𝑏 𝑤 𝑓𝑦 50 50 250
𝛽= 1.4 − 0.076 𝑠 × × = 1 .4 − 0.076 × × = 1.329
𝐿𝑐 𝑡 𝑓𝑢 165 10 410

0.9𝑓𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑐 𝛽𝑓𝑦 𝐴𝑔𝑜 0.9×410×700 1.329×250×450

𝑇𝑑𝑛 = + = + =342.56 kN
𝛾𝑚1 𝛾𝑚0 1.25 1.1

An = Anc + Ago = 700 + 450 = 1150 mm2

𝛼×𝐴𝑛 ×𝑓𝑢 0.8×1150×410
Also, 𝑇𝑑𝑛 = = = 301.8 kN
𝛾𝑚1 1.25

(c) Strength governed by block shear

Avg = 10 × 165 × 2 = 3300 mm2
Avn = 10 × 165 × 2 = 3300 mm2
Atg = 10 × 75 = 750 mm2
Atn = 10 × 75 = 750 mm2
 0.9𝐴𝑣𝑛 𝑓𝑢 𝑓𝑦 𝐴𝑡𝑔 0.9×410×3300 250×750
𝑇𝑑𝑏1 = + = +
3𝛾𝑚1 𝛾𝑚0 3×1.25 1.1
= 732.88 × 103 N = 732.88 kN
𝐴𝑣𝑔 𝑓𝑦 0.9 𝑓𝑢 𝐴𝑡𝑛 3300×250 0.9×410×750
𝑇𝑑𝑏2 = + = +
3𝛾𝑚0 𝛾𝑚1 3×1.1 1.25
= 654.41 × 103 N = 654.41 kN
Thus, Tdb = 654.41 kN
Design tensile strength of angle = 261.36 kN > 200 kN, hence safe
Again, the minimum radius of gyration (rmin) of the angle ISA
75×50×10 = 10.6 mm
The maximum slenderness ratio, λmax = Leff / rmin = 3 × 103 / 10.6 =
283 < 350.
So the angle is safe.
Weld distribution:
75;26
Force resisted by weld at lower side of angle P1 = 200 × =
75
130.7 kN
26
Force resisted by weld at upper side of angle P2 = 200 × = 69.3 kN
75
Let use 6 mm weld. So the throat thickness of the weld will be (te) =
.707 × 6 = 4.24 mm
𝑃1 130.7 ×103
Length required at lower side Lw1 = 𝑡𝑒 𝑓𝑢 = 4.24×410 = 163 mm
3𝛾𝑚𝑤 3×1.25

𝑃2 69.3×103
Length required at upper side Lw2 = 𝑡𝑒 𝑓𝑢 = 4.24×410 = 86 mm
3𝛾𝑚𝑤 3×1.25

Here, average length of weld = (163+86)/2 = 124.5 mm

 𝑏 𝑤 𝑓𝑦
Thus, actual 𝛽 = 1.4 − 0.076 𝑠 × ×
𝐿𝑐 𝑡 𝑓𝑢
50 50 250
= 1 .4 − 0.076 × × = 1.307
124.5 10 410

0.9𝑓𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑐 𝛽𝑓𝑦 𝐴𝑔𝑜 0.9×410×700 1.307×250×450

𝑇𝑑𝑛 = + = + =340.31 kN
𝛾𝑚1 𝛾𝑚0 1.25 1.1

And 𝑇𝑑𝑛 > 𝑇𝑢 = 200 𝑘𝑁. So ok.