Tension Members

UNIT 5 TENSION MEMBERS

Structure
5.1 Introduction
Objectives
5.2 Design of Structures
5.2.1 Indian Standard Specifications for Structural Steel
5.2.2 Structural Steel Rolled Sections
5.2.3 Advantages and Disadvantages of Steel Construction
5.3 Loads, Stresses and Structural Design
5.3.1 Types of Load
5.3.2 Stresses in Steel, Factor of Safety and Permissible Stresses
5.4 Design of Tension Members
5.4.1 Types of Tension Members
5.4.2 Permissible Stresses
5.4.3 Net Effective Area
5.4.4 Lug Angles and Connections
5.4.5 Tension Members : Design Procedure
5.4.6 Slenderness Ratio
5.5 Summary
5.6 Answers to SAQs

5.1 INTRODUCTION
In the previous unit you have studied about the joining and connecting methods
for various steel structural elements, and how to design them for the forces acting
on them. In this unit and the next three units, you will study about these steel
structural elements themselves and how to design them for the loads to which
they are subjected. These include members subjected to tension, to compression
and to bending stresses. In this unit, we shall be studying about the design of
tension members, that is those steel elements which are subjected to tensile forces
only. The elements may be simple or compound (i.e. more than one element).
Normally, the tensile force passes through the CG of the section but sometimes a
small eccentricity may be present for which the member has to be designed for
the increased stresses. Presence of rivet holes, cracks, unconnected legs etc. affect
the strength of the element and has to be taken into account.
Objectives
After studying this unit, you should be able to
• conceptualise and define tension member,
• explain the types of loading considered in the design of steel
structures,
• design a single steel tension member,
• design a compound tension member, and
• design the lug angles and gusset plate connections of the tension
member.
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Theory of Structures-I
5.2 DESIGN OF STRUCTURES
Structural design is an important requirement of a civil engineer. During his
professional carrier he may be required to select a certain element or an entire
structure made up of smaller elements which should be able to carry the given
loads safely and perform its functions economically.
This is usually carried out in several steps :
(a) A functional planning of the structure is the first step followed by a
structural scheme, where the most satisfactory and economical
solution of the problem is envisaged, and also the materials to be used
and the type and arrangements of the structure is decided. This is
done mainly by experienced engineers and requires a complete
understanding of the client, requirements and the limitations imposed
by the site conditions.
(b) The next step is an estimation of the loads coming on the structure
and a detailed structural analysis to be done in order to find out the
stresses and strains to which the material is subjected under the loads.
This is explained in your block of Strength of Materials and the first
three units of this block.
(c) Finally the actual size and dimensions of the various elements are
selected so as to safely carry the calculated stresses and strains which
is in fact the actual structural design. This is, of course, followed by
detailed structural drawings which will help the site engineer to
fabricate, construct or erect the given structure. As you will see the
actual choice of the proper structural element is a trial and error
process as a random selection may be either unsafe or over safe.
Hence, several trials may be needed to come to the correct size.
Normally, civil engineering structures are built in steel, masonry or reinforced
concrete. In this unit, the design of some of the structures built in steel and
masonry are explained.

5.2.1 Indian Standard Specifications for Structural Steel

All design in structural steel in this country generally conforms to the
IS 800 : 1984 which, therefore, should be constantly consulted. The structural
steel themselves should be from one of the following types :
(a) Structural Steel (Standard Quality) IS 226 : 1975
This is the standard mild steel Fe 410-S of tested quality.
(b) Structural Steel (Ordinary Quality) IS 1977 : 1975
This is mild steel not complying to (a) above.
(c) Weldable Structural Steel IS 2062 : 1984
They are specially suitable for structures subjected to dynamic and impact
loads, e.g. bridge and crane girders.
(d) Structural Steel (High Tensile) IS 961 : 1975
They have got better mechanical properties and corrosion resistance.
114
(e) Weldable Structural Steel (Medium and High Strength Qualities) Tension Members
IS 8500 : 1977
These are a number of special purpose steel.
All the above types of structural steel differ among themselves in their
physico-mechanical properties and chemical composition.
5.2.2 Structural Steel Rolled Sections
The structural steel sections are manufactured in rolling mills and must conform
to the Bureau of Indian Standard (BIS) IS 808 : Dimensions for Hot Rolled
Sections, in matters of weights, sizes and dimensions. These and other
geometrical properties of the rolled sections are given in Handbook for Structural
Engineers : Part I and must be referred to while designing such elements. The
various types of structural steel rolled sections and their symbols are shown in
Appendix A.
For all future references in design calculations it is assumed that you have access
to the handbook.
5.2.3 Advantages and Disadvantages of Steel Construction
Steel is one of the most widely used material in structural construction, due to the
following advantages :
(a) It has got high strength and lighter weight to carry the same load.
(b) It has a better service life and durability.
(c) It is easy to handle, fabricate and erect at site.
(d) Pre-fabrication or shop-fabrication is easier.
(e) Can be easily dis-assembled and re-used without much loss.
(f) Further strengthening by joining additional elements is easy.
(g) Inspection at site is quick and easy.
However, there are certain disadvantages :
(a) Steel is susceptible to corrosion, and frequent anti-corrosion measures
like painting, etc. is necessary, hence regular maintenance costs are
quite high.
(b) Steel is costly to manufacture from the natural iron ore, and rolling
them into structural shapes further enhances the cost.

5.3 LOADS, STRESSES AND STRUCTURAL DESIGN

5.3.1 Types of Load
All structures are subjected to loads. These loads cause stresses and strains in the
material of the structure. Depending upon the nature of the material and its
physico-mechanical properties, the magnitude of the stresses which a material can
sustain is limited; and beyond which the material will fail. In the next section, you
will be given the value of the permissible stresses in steel. The aim of structural
design is to proportion the structure so that the stresses developed within it are
within safe limits under any loading condition. At the same time, it should not be
over-designed, i.e. the sections made unnecessarily large causing greater cost and
heavier weight.
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Theory of Structures-I All structures are subjected to their own weight which is called self load or dead
load. In addition to that, there are loads from external sources also, which are
known as superimposed loads. These sources may be
• wind and snow,
• water current,
• earthquake,
• machines and their vibrations,
• earth pressure, etc.
All structures are subjected to such occasional gravitational loads which they are
purported to bear as their basic function. For example, a railway bridge has to
carry all the loads due to the various trains moving on it; highway bridges
similarly have to carry vehicular traffic loads, and buildings have to carry the
loads of the furniture, equipment, stores or of people inhabiting it. Such loads are
called live loads. In addition to that there may be stresses caused due to physical
conditions, e.g. temperature, impact, fatigue, deformation, secondary stresses,
erection stresses, stress-concentration, etc.
It is often difficult to estimate the exact value of these loads, but from experience
and experimental evidence an estimate can be made which are encoded in the
codes of practice published by the various user organization. A short list is given
below :
(a) Buildings : (IS : 875) (all parts) Structural Safety of Buildings :
Loading Standards (Bureau of Indian Standards).
(b) Earthquake resistant design of structure IS : 1893.
(c) Blast-resistant design of structure IS : 4991.
(d) Storage Tanks (IS : 803 and IS : 804).
(e) Overhead travelling cranes and gantry cranes (IS : 3177 and
IS : 4137).
(f) Overhead transmission line towers (IS : 802).
(g) Steel bridges (IS : 1915).
(h) Standard Specifications and Code of Practice for Road Bridges
(Indian Roads Congress).
(i) Railway Bridge Loading Standards (Railway Design and Standard
Organisation).
A designer has to be guided by the relevant code of practice while designing a
particular structure.
5.3.2 Stresses in Steel, Factor of Safety and Permissible Stresses
Types of Stresses
The following type of stresses in steel structures are commonly identified.
Tensile Stress (σat)
Tensile stress is the internal stress developed under the action of
direct axial tensile load and is given by
Pt
σ at = . . . (5.1)
Anet
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 where Pt is the axial tensile load, and Anet is the net area (after Tension Members
deductions for holes, etc.) of cross section of the member.
Compressive Stresses (σc)
Compressive stresses is the stress induced in a member due to a direct
compressive load Pc.
Pc
σ ac = . . . (5.2)
Ag

where Ag is the gross cross-sectional area of the element.

Compression is sometimes accompanied with buckling, due to the
slenderness of the member. This is discussed in a subsequent section.
Bearing Stress (σb)
Bearing stress is the stress caused by load transfer through surfaces in
contact.
P
σb = . . . (5.3)
A
where P is the load and A is the contact area.
Bending Stress : Compressive (σbc) and Tensile (σbt)
Both compressive and tensile stresses is caused in members subjected
to pure bending and is given by
M yc M yt
σbc = or σbt = . . . (5.4)
I I
where M is the bending moment, I is the moment of inertia about axis
perpendicular to plane of bending and y is the distance from neutral
axis.
[You are already familiar with the above formulae from your
knowledge of Strength of Materials.]
Permissible Stresses in Steel
The permissible (or allowable) stress in steel is determined by dividing the
yield stress (σy) by a suitable factor of safety. The value of the factor of
safety is decided on the basis of the following considerations :
(a) Variations of strength of any individual specimen from the
average strength (this depends upon the manufacturing
processes and workmanship).
(b) Uncertainty in the design loads, if estimated on insufficient
data.
(c) Method of structural analysis adopted and its precision.
(d) Uncertainty at site conditions, proper supervision and
inspection.
(e) Variations in environmental conditions, e.g. temperature,
corrosion, weather, support settlement, etc.
(f) Importance of the structure and extent of damage or losses
caused by its failure.
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Theory of Structures-I Following are the permissible stresses as per IS 800 : 1984
(a) Permissible stress in direct tension (σat) in MPa, on the net
effective area of the section is
σat = 0.6 fy . . . (5.5)
where fy = Minimum yield strength in MPa.
(b) Permissible stress in direct compression (σac) should not
exceed 0.6 fy (which is the case of non-slender axially loaded
compression members; the gross sectional area of the member is
to be taken)
σac ≤ 0.6 fy . . . (5.6(a))
l
In case of slender elements (slenderness ratio λ =
r
exceeding 10), σac should be calculated by the following
formulae
f cc ⋅ f y
σ ac ≤ 0.6 . . . (5.6(b))
[f n
cc + f yn ]
1/n

π 2E
where fcc = Elastic critical stress in compression =
λ2
where E = Modulus of elasticity of steel = 2 × 106 MPa
l Effective length
λ = Slenderness ratio = =
r Minimum radius of gyration
n = A factor assumed as 1.4.
(c) Permissible compressive stress due to bending (σbc) is given
by
σbc ≤ 0.66 fy . . . (5.7(a))
For beams and plate girders bent about axis of maximum
strength (x-x axis)
0.66 f cb ⋅ f y
σbc ≤ ...
n
[ fcb + f yn ]1/n
(5.7(b))
where fcb is the elastic critical stress in bending and depends
T d
upon and (see Unit 7).
t l
(d) Permissible tensile stress due to bending (σbt) is given by
σbt ≤ 0.66 fy . . . (5.8)
(e) Bearing stress (σp) calculated on net area of contact is given by
σp ≤ 0.75 fy . . . (5.9)
(f) Permissible shear stress (τva) in a flexural member having
regard to the distribution of stresses in conformity with the
elastic behaviour of the member is given by
τva ≤ 0.45 fy . . . (5.10)
This is explained in Unit 7.

118
 [Note : Any special provision given in a particular code of practice has to Tension Members
be taken into account, while designing that particular structure.]

5.4 DESIGN OF TENSION MEMBERS

5.4.1 Types of Tension Member
Steel tension members may be one of the following types (Figure 5.1).
Wires and Cables
These may be single wire or bundle of wires or wire ropes. Too flexible to
take any bending, they are used in cable bridges, crane ropes, hoists, etc.
Bars or Rods
Used for carrying small loads. If threaded, the minimum diameter is the
effective diameter. Sometimes used as webs in very light trusses.
Flats or Plates
For carrying light tensile forces, used in transmission towers, floor systems,
battens and lacings in composite structures, etc.
Single Rolled Sections
They may be angle, channel, Tee or light joists.
Composite or Built-up Sections
Where more than one angle, channels, etc. are used to carry heavy tensile
forces. They may be joined together by plates, flats or bars.
5.4.2 Permissible Stresses
As stated in Section 5.3.2, the permissible stress in axial tension (σat) in steel is
obtained by applying a factor of safety of 1.67 to the minimum yield strength σy.
Thus, we get
σy
σat = = 0.6 σ y
1.67
For common structural mild steel (IS: 226 -1975), the minimum yield strength
(σy) is 250 MPa. Hence, σat = 0.6 fy = 150 MPa.
This is used for members with thickness less than 20 mm. For thicker sections
this value is slightly reduced.
For 20 < t ≤ 40 mm : σat = 144 MPa, and
For t > 40 mm : σat = 138 MPa
However, for ordinary structural sections t ≤ 20 mm hence σat can be taken as
150 MPa.
5.4.3 Net Effective Area
In tension members, the calculation of ‘net effective area’ of cross section
[Gross Area (Ag) – Area of deductions (Ad)] is important.
Deductions may be caused mainly due to following two reasons :
Holes
Made in the member for rivets, bolts, etc.
Unconnected (or Outstanding) Legs
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Theory of Structures-I As distribution of stresses in connected and unconnected legs are different,
(the former carrying higher stresses).

120
 Tension Members

The provision of the Indian Standard Code IS 800 : 1984 in this respect may be
summarized as follows :
Deduction for Holes
The deductions in area for holes should be made as per guidelines given in
Section 4.2.9 of Unit 4 and shall be the sectional area of the maximum
number of holes in any cross section at right angles to the direction of stress
taking into account the zig-zag section if the holes are staggered. Refer
Figure 4.6 of Unit 4.
The number of holes to be provided in built up tension members is given in
Table 5.1.
Table 5.1 : Built-up Tension Members
Sl. No. Tension Member Deductions

1. Single angle One hole

2. Double angles One hole from each angle

3. Double channels Two holes from each web or

one hole from each flange
(whichever is greater)

4. Two channels (laced) As in (3) above

5. Four angle (laced) One hole from each angle

6. Four angles (with web) One hole from each angle and
two from web

7. Four angles (box form) Two holes from each angle and
one hole from every 150 mm
width of plate.

Deductions for Unconnected Legs

The net effective area (An) is given by the following formula
An = A1 + A2 ּ k . . . (5.11)
where, A1 = Effective area of the connected leg (after deductions for
holes, etc.) and
A2 = Cross-sectional area of the unconnected leg [Figure 5.2(a)].
The value of k is determined as per the following cases :
(a) Single angle connected by one leg only (Figure 5.2(a))
The value of k is given by
3A1
k= . . . (5.12(a))
3A1 + A2
(b) A pair of angles back to back (or a single tee) connected by one leg of
the angle (or by the flange of the tee Figure 5.2(b)) to the same side of
the gusset plate (Figure 5.2(c)).
The value of k is,

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Theory of Structures-I 5A1
k= . . . (5.12(b))
5A1 + A2

Single Angle
Tee

Gusset

(a) Single Angle (b) Tee

Double angle
(back to back)
Gusset

(c) Double Angle (d) Double Angle (Placed Opposite

(Same Side of Gusset Plate) Side of Gusset Plates)
Figure 5.2

(c) For double angles (or tees) placed back to back and connected on
each side of a gusset plate (or rolled section), no deductions for
outstanding legs are made (i.e. k = 0) provided tacking rivets with
solid distance pieces are provided at pitch line not exceeding
1000 mm.
Note : (i) If two angles placed back to back are not properly tack riveted,
each one shall be connected by one leg only and deductions
are to be made as in case (a).
(ii) Area of the leg of an angle (or tee) shall be taken as follows
(Figure 5.3).
t2
A = t1 (d − )
2
where, t1 = Thickness of leg,
d = Length of leg (from corner), and
t2 = Thickness of the other leg.

122
 Area (A) Tension Members

t1
d

t2

t2
2

Figure 5.3

Example 5.1

(Deductions for Holes)

A 100 × 75 × 10 angle is connected by both its legs through 14 mm
diameter rivets. Find the minimum net effective area, if the longer leg is
connected by three and shorter leg by two rivets at 80 mm pitch staggered
(Figure 5.4(a)).
s= 80 80
m
a
40
40
n
Critical line
55
g = 90
56
c 35
b p
5 D
35 35 35

5 r q 40 40

(a) (b)
Figure 5.4
Solution
The angle with rivet holes is shown in Figure 5.4(a). The critical line a, b, c
is shown dotted. In Figure 5.4(b), the angle is shown opened up along a-b-c,
Edge distance for long leg is 40 mm and for short leg 35 mm.
The gauge length, g is distance between the two rivet hole n and p, i.e.
g = 55 + 35 = 90 mm
Diameter of holes = 14 + 1.5 = 15.5 mm;
Area of 100 × 75 × 10 angle = 1650 mm2
For tearing plane m-n-r there is only one rivet hole
∴ Net effective area = 1650 – 15.5 × 10 = 1495 mm2
For tearing plane m-n-p-q there are two holes and one inclined path
40 2 × 10
∴ Net effective area = 1650 – 2 × (15.5 × 10) + = 1351 mm 2
4 × 90
Hence, the smaller value 1351 mm2 is the net effective area.

Example 5.2
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Theory of Structures-I (Deductions for Unconnected Legs)
A tension member consist of two 150 × 75 × 10 mm IS angles, which are
connected by their long legs to a 12 mm gusset plate by 16 mm diameter
rivets (single row). Find the net effective area of the angles under the
following conditions :
(a) The angles are connected on the same side of gusset plate and
tack riveted.
(b) Same as (a) but without tack rivets.
(c) The angles are connected on opposite sides of the gusset plate
and are tack riveted (Area of a 150 × 75 × 10 angle is 21.6 cm2).
75 Gusset

150 150

150 150

Tack rivet
75

(a) With Tack Rivets Connected (b) Without Tack Rivets Connected
to Same Side of Gusset Plate to Same Side of Gusset Plate

150

75 75

(c) Connected to Opposite Sides of

Gusset Plate (with Tack Rivets)

Figure 5.5
Solution
Taking diameter of rivet hole = 16 + 1.5 = 17.5 mm
(a) Effective area of connected legs,
⎛ 10 ⎞
A1 = 2 × ⎜ 150 − 17.5 − ⎟ × 10 = 2550 mm 2
⎝ 2⎠
Gross area of unconnected legs
⎛ 10 ⎞
A2 = 2 × ⎜ 75 − ⎟ × 10 = 1400 mm 2
⎝ 2⎠
5 A1 5 × 2550
Factor k = = = 0.901
5 A1 + A2 5 × 2550 + 1400
∴ Net effective area = A1 + kA2 = 2550 + 0.901 × 1400 = 3811 mm2
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 (b) As the angles are not tack riveted they behave like single angles Tension Members
connected to gusset plate
Area of connected leg (single angle)
⎛ 10 ⎞
A1 = ⎜150 − 17.5 − ⎟ × 10 = 1275 mm 2
⎝ 2⎠
Area of unconnected leg (single angle)
⎛ 10 ⎞
A2 = ⎜ 75 − ⎟ × 10 = 700 mm 2
⎝ 2⎠
3 A1 3 × 1275
∴ Factor k = = = 0.8453
3 A1 + A2 3 × 1275 + 700

∴ Net effective area of single angle = A1 + kA2

= 1275 + 0.8453 × 700 = 1866 mm2
∴ Net effective area of both angles = 2 × 1866 = 3732 mm2
(c) As in this case no deductions are to be made
∴ Net effective area = Gross area – Area of holes
= 2 × 2160 – 2 × 17.5 × 10 = 3970 mm2

Example 5.3

(Welded Joints v/s Riveted Joints)

Find the net effective area of a ISA 150 × 75 × 10 connected by its longer
leg to a 12 mm gusset plate by 5 mm welds. Compare it with the net
effective area of the same angle when connected by 20 mm dia rivets
(single hole).
Solution
Welded Connection
⎛ 10 ⎞ 2
Area of connected length (A1) = ⎜150 − ⎟ × 10 = 1450 mm
⎝ 2⎠
⎛ 10 ⎞
Area of unconnected length (A2) = ⎜ 75 − ⎟ × 10 = 700 mm 2
⎝ 2⎠
3 A1 3 × 1450
Factor k = = = 0.8614
3 A1 + A2 3 × 1450 + 700
∴ Net effective area = A1 + kA2 = 1450 + 0.8614 × 700 = 2053 mm2
5 mm Fillet Welds

A1
150

A2

75

(a) Welded Connection

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Theory of Structures-I

A1
150

A2

75

(b) Riveted Connection

Figure 5.6
Riveted Connection
Diameter of rivet hole = 20 + 1.5 = 21.5 mm
⎛ 10 ⎞
Area of connected leg, A1 = ⎜150 − 21.5 − ⎟ × 10 = 1235 mm 2
⎝ 2⎠

⎛ 10 ⎞
Area of unconnected leg, A2 = ⎜ 75 − ⎟ × 10 = 700 mm 2
⎝ 2⎠

3 × 1235
Factor, k = = 0.8751
3 × 1235 + 700

∴ Net effective area = A1 + A2 k = 1235 + 700 × 0.8751 = 1847 mm2

5.4.4 Lug Angles and Connections

Lug angles are small angle pieces attached by one leg to the tension member
(angle or channel flanges) and by another leg to the gusset plate. By using lug
angles we reduce the length of the gusset plate and tension member connections,
as it accommodates a number of required rivets or welds (Figure 5.7).

Lug Angle

Main Angle Member

Gusset Plate

(a) IS Single Member with Lug Angles

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 Tension Members

Lug Angle

Main Channel Member

Lug Angle

Gusset Plate
Gusset Plates

(b) IS Channel Member with Angles

Figure 5.7 : Lug Angles

The following points must be noted while designing connections with lug angles.
Angle Members
(a) Rivets connecting gusset plate with lug angle is to share less load then
the rivets connecting it with the main member.
(b) Lug angles and their connections to the gusset plate should develop a
strength at least 20% more than the force in the outstanding leg of the
angle.
(c) The attachment of the lug angle to the main angle member shall be
able to develop at least 40% more than this force.
(d) The whole area of the member shall be taken as effective (minus the
area of the holes).
Channel Members
(a) The lug angles and their connection to the gusset plate shall develop a
strength at least 10% more than the force not accounted for by the
direct connection of the member.
(b) The attachment of lug angles to the main (channel) member shall be
able to develop 20% more than this force.
(c) Not less than two bolts (rivets) should be used to attach the lug angle
to the gusset (or supporting member).

Example 5.4

(Lug Angle Connection)

Design an end connection for an ISA 150 × 75 × 10 tension member using
lug angles and 20 mm dia rivets. The gusset plate is 16 mm thick.
Permissible stresses are :
Shear stress in rivets (τvf) = 100 MPa
Bearing stress in rivets (σpf) = 300 MPa
Allowable tensile stress in steel = 150 MPa
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Theory of Structures-I Solution
Rivet hole diameter = 20 +1.5 = 21.5 mm
Gross area of ISA 150 × 75 × 10, Ag = 2160 mm2
Net area of member (deducting one rivet hole)
= 2160 – 21.5 × 10 = 1945 mm2
Strength of member = 1945 × 150 = 291, 750 N
⎛ 10 ⎞
Area of unconnected (outstanding), e.g. = ⎜ 75 − ⎟ × 10 = 700 mm 2
⎝ 2⎠
Strength of unconnected leg = 700 × 150 = 105000 N
Strength of connected leg = 291750 – 105000 = 186750 N
Strength of lug angle = 1.2 × Strength of unconnected leg
= 1.2 × 105000 = 126000 N.
126000
∴ Net area of lug angle = = 840 mm 2
150
∴ Try ISA 75 × 75 × 8 giving gross area = 1140 mm2 and net
area = 1140 – 21.5 × 8 = 968 mm2 > 840 mm2 ∴ OK.
Rivets
Strength of 21.5 mm dia rivet :
π
In shear = × (21.5) 2 × 100 = 36305 N
4
In bearing on 10 mm plate = 21.5 × 12 × 300 = 77400 N
In bearing on 8 mm plate = 21.5 × 8 × 300 = 51600 N
Taking the least of these, the rivet value (R) = 36305 N
Number of rivets required to connect main member with gusset plate
186750
= = 5.1 (say 6 rivets)
36305
Number of rivets required to connect main member angle with lug
angle
1.4 × 105000 147000
= = = 4 rivets
36305 36305
Number of rivets required to connect lug angle with gusset plate
1.2 × 105000
= = 3.5 (say 4 rivets)
36305
This is shown in Figure 5.8.

128
 Tension Members
520 75

Lug Angle 75 × 75 × 8 75

ISA 150 × 75 × 10
150

t Plate
Gusse
16 mm
16 mm Gusset Plate
16

Figure 5.8

SAQ 1

(a) Why lug angles are required for end connection of tension member?
What are the points to be considered while selecting the lug angle?
(b) Design a suitable end connection for a tension member consisting of a
ISMC 150 @ 16.8 kg/m channel section with a 16 mm thick gusset
plate; using 20 mm diameter rivets and lug angles.
5.4.5 Tension Members : Design Procedure
The design procedure for steel tension members can be summarized in the
following sequential steps. It is assumed that the design load to be carried and the
permissible stresses (minimum yield strength of steel) is known. Also the load is
purely axial, i.e. it passes through the CG of the section, and there is no
eccentricity in loading.
Step 1
P
Calculate the net area of cross section from the formula, Anet = .
σ at
Step 2
Calculate the gross area (Ag) by adding 25% to 40% to the net area, and
select a suitable section consulting the IS Handbook I.
Step 3
Design of connections : design a suitable riveted or welded connection as
required.
Step 4
Deduction for holes and outstanding legs (actual) are calculated and the
revised net area (An) is obtained. It is then checked and compared with An
required from Step 1.
Step 6
If the final calculated An is less than the required An or more than 10% in
excess of it, then the section rejected and a second trial is done repeating
the Steps 2 to 4.
Step 7
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Theory of Structures-I Final check for slenderness ratio is made and ensured that it is within the
recommended limits.
5.4.6 Slenderness Ratio
Slenderness ratio (λ) is defined as the ratio of the effective length (l) of a member
l
to its least radius of gyration (r), i.e. λ = .
r
Slenderness ratio limitations are not as important in tension members as they are
in compression members. This is since the tension member tends to straighten up
under the axial pull. However, to prevent large lateral deflections and other
practical structural considerations the following limitations are recommended
(Table 5.2).
Table 5.2 : Slenderness Ratio of Tension Members

Sl. Maximum
Types of Tension Member
No. Slenderness Ratio
1. Tension member (other than pre-tensioned ones) 400
2. Members normally acting as a tie in a roof truss or 350
bracing system but subject to a possible reversal of
stress resulting from wind or earthquake forces
3. A member in which reversal of stress due to loads 180
either wind or seismic forces occurs
Example 5.5

An IS flat is to be used as tie to carry a tensile force of 250 kN. The

effective length is 1.1 m. It is to be connected by 16 mm dia hand driven
rivets to the gusset plate. σy for MS flat is 250 MPa.
Solution
Permissible steel stress (σat) = 0.6 σy = 0.6 × 250 = 150 MPa
P 250000
Net area of flat = An = = = 1667 mm2
σ at 150
Adding 25% for deductions Ag = 1.25 × 1667 = 2083 mm2
∴ Provide 300 × 8 mm IS flat Ag = 2400 mm2
Rivets : diameter of rivets by Unwin’s formula
= 6.01 t = 6.01 8 = 17 mm

∴ Provide 18 mm dia rivets ⇒ dia of rivet hole = 18 +1.5 = 19.5 mm

π π
Value of one rivet (i) in shear = d 2 τvf = × (19.5)2 × 80 = 23,892 N
4 4
(ii) in bearing = dt σ pt = 19.5 × 8 × 250 = 39, 000 N

∴ Rivet value (R) = 23892 N

250000
No. of rivets required in the connection = = 10.5 say 11 (rivets)
23,892
They are arranged in 3 rows of 4, 3, 4 as shown in Figure 5.9.
130
 300 Tension Members
ISF 300 × 8 Gusset

50 b

100 c 250 kN
300
100 d

50
e f 8 12
30 40 40 40 40 40 40 30
Plate
12 mm Gusset

Figure 5.9
For tearing of plates :
Considering line a-b-d-e : l = 300 – 2 × 19.5 = 261 mm
402
a-b-c-f : l = 300 – 2 × 19.5 + = 265 mm
4 × 100

402
a-b-c-d-e : l = 300 – 3 × 19.5 + 2 × = 249.5 mm
4 × 100

Hence, adopting the smallest of the above, i.e. 249.5.

∴ Net area of plate (An) = 249.5 × 8 = 1996 mm2 > 1667 mm2
∴ Load carrying capacity = 1996 × 150 = 299400 N > 250 000 N ∴ OK.
Check for Slenderness Ratio
l = 1100 mm

300 × 8 3
I 12
Minimum r = = = 2.309 mm
A 300 × 8

l 1100
∴ λ= = = 476 (hence not suitable)
r 2.309

300 ×103 / 12
∴ Adopt 300 × 10 mm plate r= = 2.887 mm
300 ×10
1100
and λ= = 381 < 400 ∴ OK.
2.887

Example 5.6

A roof truss tie member carries a tensile force of 250 kN. It is to be an IS

angle member 1.2 m long and connected to a 10 mm gusset plate
(fy = 250 MPa) .
Design the member using :
(a) Power driven shop rivets, and
(b) 5 mm fillet welds.
Solution
Case (a) : Using Riveted Connection
131
Theory of Structures-I
By Unwin’s formula, rivet diameter = 6.01 10 = 19 mm
(say 20 mm. dia rivets)
∴ Diameter of rivet hole = 20 + 1.5 = 21.5 mm
Value of rivet (R)
(i) In single shear
π 2 π
= d τ vf = (21.5)2 × 100 = 36305 N
4 4
(ii) In bearing = d ⋅ t σ pt = 10 × 21.5 × 300 = 64305 N

∴ R adopted is 36305 N
250000
Number of rivets required = = 6.9 (say 7 rivets)
36305
Permissible stress in steel = 0.6 fy = 0.6 × 250 = 150 MPa
250000
∴ Net area of member = = 1667 mm2
150
Add 30% for deductions,
Gross Area (Ag) = 1.3 × 1667 = 2168 mm2
∴ Provide =150 × 75 × 10 mm size (Ag = 2160 mm2)
Deductions
(a) For holes (single row rivets)
= 21.5 × 10 = 215 mm2
(b) For unconnected leg :
Area of connected leg,
⎛ 10 ⎞ 2
A1 = ⎜150 − 21.5 − ⎟ × 10 = 1235 mm
⎝ 2 ⎠
Area of unconnected leg,
⎛ 10 ⎞ 2
A2 = ⎜ 75 − ⎟ × 10 = 700 mm
⎝ 2⎠
3 A1 3 × 1235
∴ k = = = 0.841
3 A1 + A2 3 × 1235 + 700

∴ Net area (An) = A1 + A2 k = 1225 + 700 × 0.841

=1823 mm2
Load carrying capacity = 1823 × 150 = 27356 N
> 250000 ∴ OK.
1200
Slenderness ratio λ = = 74.5 < 400 ∴ OK.
16.1
Case (b) : Using Fillet Welds
Using 150 × 75 × 10 ISA angle (Ag = 2160 mm2)
Deduction for unconnected leg only (as there are no rivet holes)
Using 125 × 75 × 10 ISA angle (Ag = 1900 mm2)
132
 Deduction for unconnected leg only (as there are no rivet holes) Tension Members

⎛ 10 ⎞ 2
A1 = ⎜125 − ⎟ × 10 = 1200 mm ,
⎝ 2 ⎠
⎛ 10 ⎞ 2
A2 = ⎜ 75 − ⎟ × 10 = 700 mm
⎝ 2⎠
3 × 1200
k= = 0.837
3 × 1200 + 700
∴ Anet = A1+ A2 k
= 1200 + 700 × 0.837 = 1786 mm2
Load carrying capacity of angle = 1786 × 150
= 267906 N > 250000 N.
Design Fillet Welded Connection
Allowable stress in weld = 150 MPa
Throat thickness of 5 mm weld = 0.7 × 5 = 3.5 mm
Strength of weld per mm length = 150 × 3.5 = 525 N
250000
∴ Length of weld = = 476 mm
525
Force resisted by lower corner weld
250000 × (150 − 42.4)
= = 179333 N
150
179333
∴ Length of lower corner weld = = 342 mm.
525
∴ Length of top edge weld = 476 – 342 = 134 mm.
7 Rivet @ 50 Pitch
150 × 75 × 10
40 6@50 = 300 40

96.7

53.3
75
10
te
et Pla
Guss
10 mm

(a) Riveted Tension Member

150 × 75 × 10

134 150 mm

75
342 10
te
et Pla
mm Guss
10 5 mm Fillet Weld

133
Theory of Structures-I (b) Welded Tension Member
Figure 5.10

SAQ 2

(a) Find a suitable rod to be used as a tension member carrying a load of

25 kN. The effective length is 2 m and fy of steel is 250 MPa.
(b) What will be the load carrying capacity of two ISA 80 × 50 × 8 angles
when they are connected to a 12 mm gusset plate by a single row of
18 mm diameter rivets :
(i) On opposite sides of the gusset plate with tack rivets.
(ii) On same side of gusset plate (back to back) with tack
rivets/tack.
(iii) Same as (ii) but without tack rivets.
Minimum yield strength of steel, fy = 250 MPa.
Design the riveted connection in each case.
(c) Determine the load carrying capacity of the two angles given in
(b) when they are joined by fillet welds to the gusset plate. Design the
welded connection.
(d) Design a tension member carrying a tensile load of 500 kN using a
suitable ISMPC channel so that flanges are outstanding legs under the
following conditions.
(i) The channel is joined to gusset plate by suitable lug
angles and two rows of rivets in web and one row in
flange.
(ii) The channel is connected to the gusset plate by suitable
fillet welds.

5.5 SUMMARY
In this unit, you have learnt about the Indian Standard specification for structural
steel and various types of structural steel rolled sections. Different types of loads,
stresses caused by loads and various kinds of permissible stresses in steel have
been described. Design of tension members is discussed in detail by covering all
important aspects like description of types of members, permissible stresses,
calculation of net effective area, lug angle connection etc. Examples, related to
various concepts discussed in the unit, have been solved for your better
understanding of these concepts.

134
 Tension Members
5.6 ANSWERS TO SAQs
SAQ 2
(a) Allowable tensile stress = 0.6 fy = 0.6 × 250 = 150 MPa
25000
∴ Net area required = = 167 mm 2
150
Add 20% for threading (grooves)
167
Gross area = = 208 mm 2 giving d = 16.3 mm.
0.8
Hence adopt ISRO-20 which is the next size available
d
rmin = = 5 mm
4
l 2000
∴ Slenderness ratio (λ) = = = 400 ∴ OK .
r 5
(b) With Tack Rivets
Area of ISA angle = 9.78 cm2,
Ag = 9.78 × 2 = 19.56 cm2 = 1956 mm2.
Area of holes = 19.5 × 8 × 2 = 312 mm2
An = 1956 – 312 = 1644 mm2
Allowable tensile stress = 0.6 fy = 0.6 × 250 = 150 MPa
Maximum P = 1644 × 150 N = 246600 N = 246.6 kN.
Without Tack Rivets
⎛ 8 ⎞
Ac = ⎜ 80 − − 19.5 ⎟ × 8 = 452 mm 2
⎝ 2 ⎠

⎛ 8⎞
A0 = ⎜ 50 − ⎟ × 8 = 368 mm 2
⎝ 2⎠
1
K = = 0.7865
368 1
1+ ×
452 3

An = 452 + 0.7865 × 368 = 741 mm 2

Net area for both angles = 2 × 741 = 1482 mm2

∴ Max P = 1482 × 150 N = 222300 N = 222.3 kN

(c) In case of weld there will not be any deductions for holes
⎛ 8⎞
∴ Ac = ⎜ 80 − ⎟ × 8 = 608 mm 2
⎝ 2⎠

⎛ 8⎞
A0 = ⎜ 50 − ⎟ × 8 = 368 mm 2
⎝ 2⎠
1
K = = 0.8321
368 1
1+ ×
608 3 135
Theory of Structures-I ∴ Anet = 608 + 0.8321 × 368 = 914 mm2
An for both angles = 2 × 914 = 1828 mm2
∴ Max P = 1828 × 150 = 274200 N = 274.2 kN.
Refer the relevant preceding text and follow the similar solved examples to get
the answers of SAQs.
Sometimes no unique solution can be assigned to a design problem, and there
may be several valid solutions.

136
Tension Members

137
Theory of Structures-I

138
Tension Members

139