TENSION

MEMBERS
Tension Members
Tension members are structural elements that are
subjected to axial tensile forces.
Examples:
- Truss members
- Bracing for buildings and bridges
- Cables in suspension or cable stayed brides
Tension Members
Cross sectional configurations
- Circular rods
- Rolled angle shapes
- Combination or built-up shapes

Built-up shapes are so widespread and so tables of properties of

various combinations of angles are included in the AISC Steel
Construction Manual.
Tension Members
The stress in an axially loaded tension member is
given by
𝑷
𝒇=
𝑨
P = magnitude of load
A = cross sectional area

- The stress is exact provided that the cross section is not

adjacent to the point of application of the load.
- The stress is a function of the particular section if the cross-
sectional area varies along the length of the member.
- In the presence of holes, the area will be reduced by an
amount equal to the area removed by the holes.
Tension members are frequently are frequently connected
at their ends with bolts.

- The tension member is connected to a gusset plate, which is a

connection element whose purpose is to transfer the load from the
member to a support or to another member.
- The area of the plate at section b-b is the reduced area referred to as the
net area.
- The area of the plate at section a-a is the unreduced area referred to as the
gross area.
Tensile Strength
The tension member can fail by reaching one of the two
limit states:
1. Excessive deformation
- to prevent excessive deformation, the stress on
the gross section must be less than the yield stress,
Fy
𝒇 ≤ 𝑭𝒚

2. Rupture or fracture
- to prevent rupture, the stress on the net section
must be less than the tensile strength, Fu
𝒇 ≤ 𝑭𝒖
Tensile Strength
Nominal strength in yielding is
𝑷𝒏 = 𝑭𝒚 𝑨𝒈

Nominal strength in fracture is

𝑷𝒏 = 𝑭𝒖 𝑨𝒆

where
𝑃𝑛 - nominal strength
𝐹𝑦 - yield strength
𝐹𝑢 - ultimate tensile strength
𝐴𝑔 - gross area
𝐴𝑒 - effective net area
LRFD – the factored tensile ASD – the total service load
load is compared to the is compared to the allowable
design strength strength (allowable load)
𝑃𝑛
𝑃𝑢 ≤ 𝜙𝑡 𝑃𝑛 𝑃𝑎 ≤
Ω𝑡
𝜙𝑡 = 0.9(𝑦𝑖𝑒𝑙𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔)
𝛺𝑡 = 1.67(𝑦𝑖𝑒𝑙𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔)
𝜙𝑡 = 0.75(𝑓𝑟𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑒)
𝛺𝑡 = 2.0(𝑓𝑟𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑒)

𝑃𝑢 is the factored load 𝑃𝑎 is the service loads

𝜙𝑡 𝑃𝑛 is the designed strength 𝑃𝑛
is the allowable strength
𝛺𝑡
𝜙𝑡 is the resistance factor
𝛺𝑡 is the safety factor.

- Values of Fy and Fu for various structural steel shapes are provided in

steel manual.
The diameter of the bolt hole must be made slightly larger
than the bolt diameter (NSCP 2015)
𝑑𝑏 + 2 𝑚𝑚 + 2𝑚𝑚 for db < 24mm
𝑑ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑒 =ቊ
𝑑𝑏 + 3 𝑚𝑚 + 2𝑚𝑚 for db ≥ 24mm
Example 1
A 12.5 mm x 125 mm plate of A36 steel ( 𝐹𝑦 =248 MPa and
𝐹𝑢 =400 MPa) is used as a tension member. It is connected to a
gusset plate with 4-16 mm ϕ bolts as shown. Assume that the
effective net area, 𝐴𝑒 , equals the actual net area, 𝐴𝑛 .
a. What is the design strength for LRFD?
b. What is the allowable strength for ASD?
Solution
a. What is the design strength for LRFD?
- Nominal strength, Pn based on yielding of
gross area
(248)(12.5𝑥125)
𝑃𝑛 = 𝐹𝑦 𝐴𝑔 =
1000
𝑃𝑛 = 387.5 𝑘𝑁
- Nominal strength, Pn based on fracture of
net area
𝑑ℎ = 𝑑𝑏 + 4 𝑚𝑚 for db < 24mm
𝑑ℎ = 16 + 4 = 20 𝑚𝑚
𝐴𝑒 = 𝐴𝑛 = (12.5)(125 − 2𝑥20)
𝐴𝑒 = 1062.5 𝑚𝑚2
(400)(1062.5)
𝑃𝑛 = 𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑒 =
1000
𝑃𝑛 = 425 𝑘𝑁
Solution
a. What is the design strength for LRFD?
- Design strength for LRFD
Based on yielding
𝑃𝑢 = 𝜙𝑃𝑛 = 0.90(387.5)
𝑃𝑢 = 348.75 𝑘𝑁
Based on fracture
𝑃𝑢 = 𝜙𝑃𝑛 = 0.75(425)
𝑃𝑢 = 318.75 𝑘𝑁

The smaller value governs

𝑃𝑢 = 318.75 𝑘𝑁
Solution
b. What is the design strength for ASD?
- Design strength for ASD
Based on yielding
𝑃𝑛 387.5
𝑃= =
Ω 1.67
𝑃 = 232.036 𝑘𝑁
Based on fracture
𝑃𝑛 425
𝑃= =
Ω 2.0
𝑃 = 212.5 𝑘𝑁
The smaller value governs

𝑃 = 212.5 𝑘𝑁
Example 2
A single angle tension member L90 x 90 x 10 (Ag=1713 mm2) is
connected to a gusset plate with 22 mm ϕ bolts as shown. A 36
steel (𝐹𝑦 = 248 MPa and 𝐹𝑢 = 400 MPa) is used. The service loads are:
DL= 155 KN and LL= 66 KN. Investigate this member for
compliance with the AISC. Assume that the effective net area is
85% of the computed net area.

a. Use LRFD
b. Use ASD
Solution
- Compute the nominal strength, Pn
Based on yielding (gross section)
(248)(1713)
𝑃𝑛 = 𝐹𝑦 𝐴𝑔 =
1000
𝑃𝑛 = 424.824 𝑘𝑁

Based on rupture (net section)

𝑑ℎ = 𝑑𝑏 + 4 𝑚𝑚 for db < 24mm 𝐴𝑒 = 0.85𝐴𝑛 = 0.85(1453)
𝑑ℎ = 22 + 4 = 26 𝑚𝑚 𝐴𝑒 = 1235.05 𝑚𝑚2
𝐴𝑛 = 𝐴𝑔 − 𝐴ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑒 (400)(1235.05)
𝑃𝑛 = 𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑒 =
𝐴ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑒 = 𝑑ℎ 𝑥 thickness = 26(10) 1000
𝑃𝑛 = 494.02 𝑘𝑁
𝐴𝑛 = 1713 − 26 10 = 1453 𝑚𝑚2
Solution
a. Design strength for LRFD
Based on yielding
𝑃𝑢 = 𝜙𝑃𝑛 = 0.90(424.824)
𝑃𝑢 = 382. 342 𝑘𝑁
Based on rupture
𝑃𝑢 = 𝜙𝑃𝑛 = 0.75(494.02)
𝑃𝑢 = 370.515 𝑘𝑁
The smaller value is the design strength
𝑃𝑢 𝑐𝑎𝑝 = 370.515 𝑘𝑁
Factored load, Pu
𝑃𝑢 = 1.2𝑃𝐷𝐿 + 1.6𝑃𝐿𝐿 = 1.2(155) + 1.6(66)
𝑃𝑢 = 291.60 𝑘𝑁
𝑃𝑢 𝑐𝑎𝑝 > 𝑃𝑢 then the member is adequate
Solution
b. Design strength for ASD
Based on yielding Based on rupture
𝑃𝑛 424.824 𝑃𝑛 494.02
𝑃= = 𝑃= =
Ω 1.67 Ω 2.0
𝑃 = 254.386 𝑘𝑁 𝑃 = 247.01 𝑘𝑁

The smaller value is the design strength

𝑃𝑐𝑎𝑝 = 247.01 𝑘𝑁
Service load, P
𝑃 = 𝑃𝐷𝐿 + 𝑃𝐿𝐿 = 155 + 66
𝑃 = 221 𝑘𝑁
𝑃𝑐𝑎𝑝 > 𝑃 then the member is adequate
Example 3
A double angle shape is shown in the figure (Ag=1549mm2) . The
steel is A36 (𝐹𝑦 = 248 MPa and 𝐹𝑢 = 400 MPa) and the holes are for
12 mm ϕ bolts. Assume that 𝐴𝑒 = 0.75𝐴𝑛 .
a. Determine the design tensile strength for LRFD.
b. Determine the allowable tensile strength for ASD.
Solution
- Compute the nominal strength, Pn
Based on yielding (gross section)
(248)(2𝑥1549)
𝑃𝑛 = 𝐹𝑦 𝐴𝑔 =
1000
𝑃𝑛 = 768.304 𝑘𝑁

Based on rupture (net section)

𝑑ℎ = 𝑑𝑏 + 4 𝑚𝑚 for db < 24mm 𝐴𝑒 = 0.75𝐴𝑛 = 0.75(1293)
𝑑ℎ = 12 + 4 = 16 𝑚𝑚 𝐴𝑒 = 969.75 𝑚𝑚2
𝐴𝑛 = 𝐴𝑔 − 𝐴ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑒 (400)(2𝑥969.75)
𝑃𝑛 = 𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑒 =
1000
𝐴ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑒 = 𝑑ℎ 𝑥 thickness = 16(8)
𝑃𝑛 = 775.80 𝑘𝑁
𝐴𝑛 = 1549 − 2(16) 8 = 1293 𝑚𝑚2
Solution
a. Design strength for LRFD
Based on yielding
𝑃𝑢 = 𝜙𝑃𝑛 = 0.90(768.304)
𝑃𝑢 = 691.474 𝑘𝑁
Based on rupture
𝑃𝑢 = 𝜙𝑃𝑛 = 0.75(775.80)
𝑃𝑢 = 581.85 𝑘𝑁
The smaller value is the design strength
𝑃𝑢 𝑐𝑎𝑝 = 581.85 𝑘𝑁
Solution
b. Design strength for ASD
Based on yielding
𝑃𝑛 768.304
𝑃= =
Ω 1.67
𝑃 = 460.062 𝑘𝑁

Based on fracture
𝑃𝑛 775.80
𝑃= =
Ω 2.0
𝑃 = 387.90 𝑘𝑁

The smaller value is the design strength

𝑃𝑐𝑎𝑝 = 387.90 𝑘𝑁
Shear Lag
- Shear lag is the considered as the most important factor that
contributes to the reduction of the effectiveness of the member.
- Shear lag occurs when some elements of the cross section are
not connected.
- Connected elements become overloaded and the unconnected
part is not fully stressed.
Effective Area
Shear lag can be accounted by using a reduced or effective net area.
For bolted connections
𝐴𝑒 = 𝐴𝑛 𝑈
For welded connections
𝐴𝑒 = 𝐴𝑔 𝑈

where:
𝐴𝑒 - effective area
𝐴𝑛 - net area
𝐴𝑔 - gross area
𝑈- reduction factor
Rules for determining 𝑼
1. A general category for any type of tension member except plates
and round HSS with 𝑙 ≥ 1.3𝐷

𝑥ҧ
𝑈 =1−
𝑙

where
𝑥ҧ – distance from the centroid of the connected area to the
plane of the connection
𝑙 – length of connection in the direction of the load

If a member has two symmetrically located planes of

connection, 𝑥ҧ is measured from the centroid of the nearest one-
half of the area.
1. A general category for any type of tension member except plates
and round HSS with 𝑙 ≥ 1.3𝐷
Distance from the centroid of the connected area to the plane of the
connection 𝑥ҧ of the different connections.

If a member has two symmetrically located planes of connection, 𝑥ҧ

is measured from the centroid of the nearest one-half of the area.
1. A general category for any type of tension member except plates
and round HSS with 𝑙 ≥ 1.3𝐷
Length 𝑙 for bolted connections is measured from the center of the bolt
at one end of the connection to to the center of the bolt to the other end.

Length 𝑙 for welds is measured from one end of the weld to the other.
Average weld lengths is taken if there are weld segments of different
lengths in the direction of the load.
Rules for determining 𝑼
2. Bolted plates
For bolted plates, 𝑈 = 1.0
Rules for determining 𝑼
3. Welded members
a. When the load is transmitted by transverse welds only (no
longitudinal welds), 𝑈 = 1.0 and 𝐴𝑛 is the area of the
connected element.
b. When the load is transmitted by longitudinal welds only (no
transverse welds)
𝑙 ≥ 2𝑤 𝑈 = 1.0
2𝑤 > 𝑙 ≥ 1.5𝑤 𝑈 = 0.87
1.5𝑤 > 𝑙 ≥ 𝑤 𝑈 = 0.75
where w is the width of the member
Rules for determining 𝑼
4. Round HSS with 𝑙 ≥ 1.3𝐷

5. Alternatives to Case 1 for single and double angles

• For four or more fasteners in the direction of loading, 𝑈 = 0.80.
• For three fasteners in the direction of loading, 𝑈 = 0.60.
Rules for determining 𝑼
6. Alternatives to Case 1 for W, M, S, HP, or tees cut from these
shapes.

• Connected through the flange with three or more fasteners in the

direction of loading, with width at least 2/3 of the depth: 𝑈 = 0.90.
Rules for determining 𝑼
• Connected through the flange with three or more fasteners in the
direction of loading, with width less than 2/3 of the depth: 𝑈 = 0.85.
• Connected through the web with four or more fasteners in the
direction of loading: 𝑈 = 0.70.

- For bolted splice plates, 𝐴𝑛 ≤ 0.85𝐴𝑔 NSCP Sec. 504.3.2

- For open cross sectional plates ( such as W, M, S, etc), the value 𝑈
need not be less than the ratio of the connected element gross
area to the total gross area.
Rules for determining 𝑼
Example 4
Determine the effective net area for the tension member shown.

a. Using the effective area formula of case 1

b. Using alternative value of U
Solution
a. Using the effective area formula of case 1
Area of L150 x 150 x 12, 𝐴𝑔 = 3483 𝑚𝑚2
𝑑ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑒 = 16 + 4 = 20 𝑚𝑚
𝑙 = 75 + 75 = 150 𝑚𝑚
𝐴𝑛 = 𝐴𝑔 − 𝐴ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑒
𝐴𝑛 = 3483 − 2(12)(20)
𝐴𝑛 = 3003 𝑚𝑚2
𝑥ҧ 41.23
𝑈 =1− =1−
𝑙 150
𝑈 = 0.725
𝐴𝑒 = 𝑈𝐴𝑛 = 0.725(3003)
𝐴𝑒 = 2177.175 𝑚𝑚2
Solution
b. Using alternative value of U
Because this angle has three bolts in the direction of the load, then
𝑈 = 0.60
𝐴𝑒 = 𝑈𝐴𝑛 = 0.60(3003)
𝐴𝑒 = 1801.80 𝑚𝑚2

Either 𝑈 value is acceptable, and the specification permits the larger one
to be used. However the value obtained from case 1 is more accurate.
Example 5
For the tension member welded as shown, determine the effective
net area if 𝐴𝑔 = 3483 𝑚𝑚2 .

Solution
Using the effective area formula of case 1
𝑥ҧ 41.23
𝑈 =1− =1−
𝑙 140
𝑈 = 0.706
𝐴𝑒 = 𝑈𝐴𝑛 = 0.706(3483)
𝐴𝑒 = 2458.998 𝑚𝑚2
STAGGERED FASTENERS
- The net area in a tension member is maximized if the fasteners
are placed in a single line.
- Spacing limitations require bolts in more than one line.
- Reduction in the net area is minimized if arranged in a
staggered pattern.
STAGGERED FASTENERS
- If the amount of stagger is small enough, the influence of an
offset hole may be felt by a nearby section and rupture along an
inclined path is possible.
- Simple P/A is not applicable in this case because inclined line bc
is subjected to both axial tension and shear.
STAGGERED FASTENERS
- AISC proposed that the net width in a failure line in both
staggered and unstaggered holes is calculated as
𝑠2
𝑤𝑛 = 𝑤𝑔 − ෍ 𝑑 + ෍
4𝑔

Equivalently, the net area is

𝑠2
𝐴𝑛 = 𝐴𝑔 − 𝐴ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑒𝑠 + 𝑡 ෍
4𝑔

where:

𝑤𝑛 – net width
𝑤𝑔 – gross width
𝑠 – pitch, longitudinal spacing between any two bolts
𝑔– gage, transverse spacing between any two bolts
𝑡– thickness of the tension member
Example 6
Compute the smallest net area for the plate shown. The holes are
for 25 mm 𝜙 bolts.
Solution
Consider line abde
𝑠2
𝑤𝑛 = 𝑤𝑔 − ෍ 𝑑 + ෍
4𝑔
𝑤𝑛 = 400 − 2(30) + 0
𝑤𝑛 = 340 𝑚𝑚

Consider line abcde

𝑑ℎ = 25 + 5 = 30 𝑚𝑚
𝑠2
𝑤𝑛 = 𝑤𝑔 − ෍ 𝑑 + ෍
4𝑔
752 752
𝑤𝑛 = 400 − 3 30 + +
4 125 4(125)
𝑤𝑛 = 332.50 𝑚𝑚
Solution
Consider line ijfh
𝑠2
𝑤𝑛 = 𝑤𝑔 − ෍ 𝑑 + ෍
4𝑔
11
𝑤𝑛 = [400 − 2 30 ]
8
𝑤𝑛 = 467.50𝑚𝑚

𝑑ℎ = 25 + 5 = 30 𝑚𝑚
Use the least value
𝑤𝑛 = 332.50 𝑚𝑚
𝐴𝑛 = 𝑡(𝑤𝑛 )
𝐴𝑛 = 20(332.50)
𝐴𝑛 = 6650 𝑚𝑚2
STAGGERED FASTENERS
When lines of bolts are present in more than one element of the
cross section of a rolled shape, and the bolts in these lines are
staggered with respect to one another, the use of areas is
preferrable. If the shape is an angle, it can be visualized as a plane
formed by “unfolding” the legs. Any gage line crossing the angle
is reduced by the thickness of the angle.

𝑠2
𝐴𝑛 = 𝐴𝑔 − 𝐴ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑒𝑠 + 𝑡 ෍
4𝑔
1
𝑔 = 3 𝑖𝑛 + 2 𝑖𝑛 − 𝑖𝑛
2
Example 7
The angle with staggered fasteners in each leg is shown. A36 steel
(𝐹𝑦 = 248 MPa and 𝐹𝑢 = 400 MPa) is used and holes are for 20 mm ϕ
bolts.
a. Determine the design strength for LRFD.
b. Determine the allowable strength for ASD.
Solution
Effective net area, An
𝑑ℎ = 20 + 4 = 24 𝑚𝑚
𝑔𝑐𝑔 = 56.25 + 75 − 12.5 = 118.75 𝑚𝑚

Consider line abdf

𝑠2
𝐴𝑛 = 𝐴𝑔 − 𝐴ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑒𝑠 + 𝑡 ෍
4𝑔
𝐴𝑛 = 4355 − 2(24)(12.5)
𝐴𝑛 = 3755 𝑚𝑚2

Consider line abcdeg

𝑠2
𝐴𝑛 = 𝐴𝑔 − 𝐴ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑒𝑠 + 𝑡 ෍
4𝑔
37.52 37.52 37.52
𝐴𝑛 = 4355 − 4 24 12.5 + 12.5 + 12.5 + 12.5
4 62.5 4 118.75 4 75
𝐴𝑛 = 3320.913 𝑚𝑚2 governs!
Solution
Nominal strength, Pn
Both legs of the angle are connected, thus 𝐴𝑒 = 𝐴𝑛 = 3320.913𝑚𝑚2
Based on yielding (gross section)
(248)(4355)
𝑃𝑛 = 𝐹𝑦 𝐴𝑔 =
1000
𝑃𝑛 = 1080.04 𝑘𝑁

Based on rupture (net section)

(400)(3320.913)
𝑃𝑛 = 𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑒 =
1000
𝑃𝑛 = 1328.365 𝑘𝑁
Solution
a. Design strength for LRFD
Based on yielding
𝑃𝑢 = 𝜙𝑃𝑛 = 0.90(1080.04)
𝑃𝑢 = 972.036 𝑘𝑁
Based on rupture
𝑃𝑢 = 𝜙𝑃𝑛 = 0.75(1328.365)
𝑃𝑢 = 996.274 𝑘𝑁
The smaller value is the design strength
𝑃𝑢 𝑐𝑎𝑝 = 972.036 𝑘𝑁
Solution
b. Design strength for ASD
Based on yielding
𝑃𝑛 1080.04
𝑃= =
Ω 1.67
𝑃 = 646.731 𝑘𝑁

Based on fracture
𝑃𝑛 1328.365
𝑃= =
Ω 2.0
𝑃 = 664.183 𝑘𝑁

The smaller value is the design strength

𝑃𝑐𝑎𝑝 = 646. 731𝑘𝑁
STAGGERED FASTENERS
When staggered holes are present in shapes other than angles, and
the holes are in different elements of the cross section, the shape
can still be visualized as a plate.
Example 8
Find the available strength of the S-shape shown using ASD and
LRFD. The holes are for 20 mm 𝜙 bolts. Use A36 steel (𝐹𝑦 = 248 MPa
and 𝐹𝑢 = 400 MPa).
Solution
Effective net area, An
𝑑ℎ = 20 + 4 = 24 𝑚𝑚
87.5 13.97
𝑔𝑐𝑔 = + 68.75 − = 105.515 𝑚𝑚
2 2
Consider line abcd
𝑠2
𝐴𝑛 = 𝐴𝑔 − 𝐴ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑒𝑠 + 𝑡 ෍
4𝑔
𝐴𝑛 = 9484 − 4 24 15.8 − 2 24 13.97
37.52 13.97 + 15.80
+2
4 105.515 2

𝐴𝑛 = 7395. 83𝑚𝑚2
Solution
Nominal strength, Pn
Based on yielding (gross section)
(248)(9484)
𝑃𝑛 = 𝐹𝑦 𝐴𝑔 =
1000
𝑃𝑛 = 2352.032 𝑘𝑁

Based on rupture (net section)

(400)(7395.83)
𝑃𝑛 = 𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑒 =
1000
𝑃𝑛 = 2958.332 𝑘𝑁
Solution
a. Design strength for LRFD
Based on yielding
𝑃𝑢 = 𝜙𝑃𝑛 = 0.90(2352.032)
𝑃𝑢 = 2116.829 𝑘𝑁
Based on rupture
𝑃𝑢 = 𝜙𝑃𝑛 = 0.75(2958.332)
𝑃𝑢 = 2218.749 𝑘𝑁
The smaller value is the design strength
𝑃𝑢 𝑐𝑎𝑝 = 2116.829 𝑘𝑁
Solution
b. Design strength for ASD
Based on yielding
𝑃𝑛 2352.032
𝑃= =
Ω 1.67
𝑃 = 1408.402 𝑘𝑁

Based on fracture
𝑃𝑛 2958.332
𝑃= =
Ω 2.0
𝑃 = 1479.166 𝑘𝑁

The smaller value is the design strength

𝑃𝑐𝑎𝑝 = 1408.402 𝑘𝑁
BLOCKED SHEAR
Block shear is a phenomenon wherein a segment or block of a
material at the end of a member can tear out.
BLOCKED SHEAR
For the gusset plate
- Tension failure is along transverse section df
- Shear failure would occur on two longitudinal surfaces, de and fg.

For the plate member

- Tension failure is along transverse section ik
- Shear failure would occur on two longitudinal surfaces, hi and jk.
BLOCKED SHEAR
- AISC specifications assumes that failure occurs by rupture on both the
shear and tension areas.
- Shear rupture stress is taken 60% of the tensile ultimate stress.
- The resistance to block shear is the sum of the strengths of the tension
and shear section surfaces and is given by

𝑅𝑛 = 0.6𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑣 + 𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑡

- For non-uniform tensile stress

𝑅𝑛 = 0.6𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑣 + 0.5𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑡

where:
𝐴𝑛𝑣 = net area along the shear surface or surfaces
𝐴𝑛𝑡 = net area along the tension surface
BLOCKED SHEAR
- AISC specifications limits the 0.6𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑣 term to 0.6𝐹𝑦 𝐴𝑔𝑣 where
0.60𝐹𝑦 = shear yield stress
𝐴𝑔𝑣 = gross area along the shear surface or surfaces

- One equation to cover all cases

𝑅𝑛 = 0.6𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑣 + 𝑈𝑏𝑠 𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑡 ≤ 0.6𝐹𝑦 𝐴𝑔𝑣 + 𝑈𝑏𝑠 𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑡

where:
𝑈𝑏𝑠 = 1.0 for uniform tensile stress
𝑈𝑏𝑠 = 0.5 for non-uniform tensile stress
Example 9
1. Compute the block shear strength of the tension member
shown. The holes are for 20 mm ϕ bolts and A36 steel (𝐹𝑦 = 248
MPa and 𝐹𝑢 = 400 MPa) is used.
2. Compute the design strength of the tension member.
a. Use LRFD
b. Use ASD
Solution
Nominal block shear strength, Rn
For line 1-2-3
𝑑ℎ = 20 + 4 = 24 𝑚𝑚
1 2
𝐴𝑔𝑣 = 187.50 10 = 1875 𝑚𝑚2
𝐴𝑛𝑣 = 187.5 − 2.5(24 ) 10 = 1275 𝑚𝑚2 3
𝐴𝑛𝑡 = 40 − 0.5(24 ) 10 = 280 𝑚𝑚2

𝑅𝑛 = 0.6𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑣 + 𝑈𝑏𝑠 𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑡

𝑅𝑛 = 0.6(400)(1275) + (1.0)(400)(280) [Newtons]
𝑅𝑛 = 418 𝑘𝑁
𝑅𝑛𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 0.6𝐹𝑦 𝐴𝑔𝑣 + 𝑈𝑏𝑠 𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑡
𝑅𝑛𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 0.6(248)(1875) + (1.0)(400)(280) [Newtons]
𝑅𝑛𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 391 𝑘𝑁 governs!
Solution
Design block shear strength for LRFD
𝑃𝑢 = 𝜙𝑅𝑛
𝑃𝑢 = 0.75(391)
𝑃𝑢 = 293.25 𝑘𝑁
Design block shear strength for ASD
𝑅𝑛
𝑃=
Ω
391
𝑃=
2.0
𝑃 = 195.5 𝑘𝑁
Solution
Nominal tensile strength, 𝑃𝑛
𝐴𝑛 = 𝐴𝑔 − 𝐴ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑒 = 1713 − (24)(10)
𝐴𝑛 = 1473 𝑚𝑚2
𝑥ҧ 25.80
𝑈 =1− =1− = 0.828
𝑙 150
𝐴𝑒 = 𝑈𝐴𝑛 = 0.828(1473) = 1219.644 𝑚𝑚2

Based on yielding (gross section)

(248)(1713)
𝑃𝑛 = 𝐹𝑦 𝐴𝑔 =
1000
𝑃𝑛 = 424.824 𝑘𝑁

Based on rupture (net section)

(400)(1219.644)
𝑃𝑛 = 𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑒 =
1000
𝑃𝑛 = 487.858 𝑘𝑁
Solution
Design strength for LRFD
Based on yielding
𝑃𝑢 = 𝜙𝑃𝑛 = 0.90(424.824) = 382.342 𝑘𝑁
Based on rupture
𝑃𝑢 = 𝜙𝑃𝑛 = 0.75(487.858) = 365.894 𝑘𝑁

Design strength for ASD

Based on yielding
𝑃𝑛 424.824
𝑃= = = 254.386 𝑘𝑁
Ω 1.67
Based on fracture
𝑃𝑛 487.858
𝑃= = = 243.929 𝑘𝑁
Ω 2.0

𝑃 = 664.183 𝑘𝑁
Solution
Considering the three limit states for LRFD
𝑃𝑢 = 293.25 𝑘𝑁 block shear
𝑃𝑢 = 382.342 𝑘𝑁 yielding
𝑃𝑢 = 365.894 𝑘𝑁 rupture
The smallest governs
𝑃𝑢 = 293.25 𝑘𝑁

Considering the three limit states for ASD

𝑃 = 195.5 𝑘𝑁 block shear
𝑃 = 254.386 𝑘𝑁 yielding
𝑃 = 243.929 𝑘𝑁 rupture
The smallest governs
𝑃 = 195.5 𝑘𝑁
DESIGN OF TENSION MEMBERS
- Design of tension members is to find a suitable cross section for which
the required strength does not exceed the available strength.
- A secondary consideration is slenderness ratio which is the ratio of the
length of the member L and the minimum radius of gyration r.

For LRFD
𝑃𝑢 ≤ 𝜙𝑃𝑛
𝑃𝑢
𝑃𝑢 ≤ 0.90𝐹𝑦 𝐴𝑔 or 𝐴𝑔 ≥ to prevent yielding
0.90𝐹𝑦
𝑃𝑢
𝑃𝑢 ≤ 0.75𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑒 or 𝐴𝑒 ≥ to prevent rupture
0.75𝐹𝑢

𝑃𝑢 - sum of factored loads

DESIGN OF TENSION MEMBERS
For ASD
𝑃𝑎 ≤ 𝐹𝑡 𝐴𝑔
𝑃𝑎
𝐴𝑔 ≥ to prevent yielding
0.60𝐹𝑦
𝑃𝑎
𝐴𝑒 ≥ to prevent rupture
0.50𝐹𝑢
𝑃𝑎 – sum of service loads

Slenderness ratio limitation

𝐿
𝑟≥
300
𝑟 – minimum radius of gyration of the cross section
𝐿 – length of the member
Example 10
A tension member with a length of 1.75 m must resist a service
loads of DL=80 KN and LL=230 KN. Select a member with a
rectangular cross section. Use A36 steel (Fy= 248 MPa and Fu= 400
MPa) and assume a connection with two lines of 20 mm ϕ bolts.
Use LRFD.
75 75
40

75 𝑊
Solution
Factored load 𝑃𝑢
𝑃𝑢 = 1.4𝑃𝐷𝐿 = 1.4 80 = 112 kN
𝑃𝑢 = 1.2𝑃𝐷𝐿 + 1.6𝑃𝐿𝐿 = 1.2 80 + 1.6 230 = 464 kN governs!
Design the tension member
• For yielding
𝑃𝑢 464𝑥103
𝐴𝑔 = = → 𝐴𝑔 = 2078.85 mm2
0.90𝐹𝑦 0.90 248
• For fracture
𝑃𝑢 464𝑥103 𝐴𝑔 = 𝐴𝑛 + 𝐴ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑒
𝐴𝑒 = =
0.75𝐹𝑢 0.75 400 𝐴ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑒 = 𝑛𝑡(𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑚 + 4)
𝐴𝑒 = 1546.67 mm2
𝐴ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑒 = 2𝑡(20 + 4)
𝐴𝑛 = 𝐴𝑒 = 1546.67 mm2
𝐴𝑔 = 1546.67+ 48𝑡
• Minimum radius of gyration, 𝑟𝑚𝑖𝑛
𝐿 1750
𝑟𝑚𝑖𝑛 = 300 = = 5.833 mm
300
Solution
Try t = 20 mm
𝐴𝑔 = 1546.67 + 48 20 = 2506.67 mm2 >2078.85 mm2
𝑈𝑠𝑒 𝐴𝑔 = 2506.67 mm2
Width of the plate
𝐴𝑔 2506.67
𝑤= =
𝑡 20
𝑤 = 125.333 mm say 130 mm
Try section 20 mm by 130 mm plate
𝐴𝑔 = 20 130 = 2600 mm2
Check slenderness ratio
20(130)3 𝐼 86666.667
𝐼𝑥 = = 3661666.67 mm4 𝑟𝑦 = =
12 𝐴 2600
130(20)3 𝑟𝑦 = 5.774 𝑚𝑚 < 5.833 𝑚𝑚
𝐼𝑦 = = 86666.667 mm4 governs!
12 failed!
Solution
Try t = 22 mm
𝐴𝑔 = 1546.67 + 48 22 = 2602.667 mm2 >2078.85 mm2
𝑈𝑠𝑒 𝐴𝑔 = 2602.667 mm2
Width of the plate
𝐴𝑔 2602.667
𝑤= =
𝑡 22
𝑤 = 118.303 mm say 120 mm
Try section 22 mm by 120 mm plate
𝐴𝑔 = 22 120 = 2640 mm2
Check slenderness ratio
22(120)3 𝐼 106480
𝐼𝑥 = = 3168000 mm4 𝑟𝑦 = =
12 𝐴 2640
120(22)3 𝑟𝑦 = 6.351 𝑚𝑚 > 5.833 𝑚𝑚
𝐼𝑦 = = 106480 mm4 governs!
12 OK!
Solution
Design strength
• For yielding
𝑃𝑢𝑐𝑎𝑝 = 0.90𝐹𝑦 𝐴𝑔
𝑃𝑢𝑐𝑎𝑝 = 0.90 248 (2640)
𝑃𝑢𝑐𝑎𝑝 = 589.248 𝑘𝑁 > 𝑃𝑢 = 464 𝑘𝑁 OK!

• For fracture
𝐴𝑛 = 𝐴𝑒 = 2640 − 2(22)(24)
𝐴𝑛 = 𝐴𝑒 = 1584 mm2
𝑃𝑢𝑐𝑎𝑝 = 0.75𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑒
𝑃𝑢𝑐𝑎𝑝 = 0.75(400)(1584)
𝑃𝑢𝑐𝑎𝑝 = 475.20 𝑘𝑁 > 𝑃𝑢 = 464 𝑘𝑁 OK!
 Solution
Check block shear strength 75 75
40

𝐴𝑔𝑣 = 2 22 190
𝐴𝑔𝑣 = 8360 mm2
120 75 𝑃𝑢 = 464 𝑘𝑁
𝐴𝑛𝑣 = 2 22 190 − 2.5 ∗ 24
𝐴𝑛𝑣 = 5720 mm2
𝐴𝑛𝑡 = 22 75 − 24
𝐴𝑛𝑡 = 1122 mm2
𝑅𝑛 = 0.60𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑣 + 𝑈𝑏𝑠 𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑡 𝜙𝑅𝑛 = 0.75 1702.80
𝑅𝑛 = 0.60 400 5720 + 1.0 400 1122 𝜙𝑅𝑛 = 1277.10 kN > 464 𝑘𝑁 OK
𝑅𝑛 = 1821.60 kN ∴Use PL 22x120
𝑅𝑛𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 0.60𝐹𝑦 𝐴𝑔𝑣 + 𝑈𝑏𝑠 𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑡
𝑅𝑛𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 0.60 250 8360 + 1.0 400 1122
𝑅𝑛𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 1702.80 kN
∴ 𝑈𝑠𝑒 𝑅𝑛𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 1702.80 kN
Example 11
Select a W shape to resist an ultimate load of Pu=800 kN. The
connection will be through the flanges with two lines of 16 mm 𝜙
bolts in each flange as shown. The length of the member is 4.5 m.
Use A36 steel (Fy= 250 MPa and Fu= 400 MPa). Consider all limit
states including block shear. Use LRFD.
Solution
𝐹𝑦 = 250 𝑀𝑃𝑎 𝑃𝑢 = 800 𝑘𝑁
𝐹𝑢 = 400 𝑀𝑃𝑎 𝐿 = 4.5 𝑚 𝑃𝑢 = 800 𝑘𝑁
𝑇𝑟𝑦 𝑈 = 0.85
• For yielding
𝑃𝑢 800𝑥103
𝐴𝑔 = = → 𝐴𝑔 = 3555.556 mm2
0.90𝐹𝑦 0.90 250
• For fracture
𝑃𝑢 800𝑥103
𝐴𝑒 = = 𝐴𝑔 = 𝐴𝑛 + 𝐴ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑒
0.75𝐹𝑢 0.75 400
𝐴𝑒 = 2666.667 mm2 𝐴ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑒 = 𝑛𝑡(𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑚 + 4)
𝐴𝑒 2666.667 𝐴ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑒 = 4𝑡(16 + 4)
𝐴𝑛 = =
𝑈 0.85 𝐴𝑔 = 3137.255+ 80𝑡
𝐴𝑛 = 3137.255 mm2
• Minimum radius of gyration, 𝑟𝑚𝑖𝑛
𝐿 4500
𝑟𝑚𝑖𝑛 = = = 15
300 300
Solution

Ag1 or
Section Mass Ag prov tf ry 𝐲ത
Ag2

W 5x19 28 3574 10.92 4010.855 32.51 65.40

W 6x20 30 3787 9.27 3878.855 38.10 78.74

W 8x21 31 3974 10.16 3950.055 32.00 105.155

W 10x19 28 3626 10.03 3939.655 22.20 130.05

8.890
W 12x19 28 3594 3848.455 20.88 154.43

Try W 5x19
Check design tensile strength
For yielding
𝑃𝑢 = 0.90𝐹𝑦 𝐴𝑔
𝑃𝑢 = 0.90 250 3574 /1000
𝑃𝑢 = 804.15 𝑘𝑁 > 800 𝑘𝑁 𝑂𝐾
Solution
Check design tensile strength
𝑥ҧ W 5x19
For fracture 65.4 𝑏𝑓 = 127.8 𝑚𝑚
𝐴𝑛 = 𝐴𝑔 − 𝐴ℎ 𝑡𝑓 = 10.922 𝑚𝑚
𝐴𝑛 = 3574 − 80 10.92 𝑡𝑤 = 6.86 𝑚𝑚

𝐴𝑛 = 2700.40 mm2
𝑥ҧ 12.4
𝑈 =1− =1− 𝑥ҧ 127.8 10.922 + 6.86 65.4 − 10.922 =
𝑙 150 127.8 10.922
10.922
+ 6.86 65.4 − 10.922
2
𝑈 = 0.917 > 0.85 𝑂𝐾 65.4−10.922
+ 10.922
2
𝐴𝑒 = 𝑈𝐴𝑛 𝑥ҧ = 12.367
𝐴𝑒 = 0.917 2700.40 𝑥ҧ = 12.4 𝑢𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑊𝑇 2.5𝑥9.5
𝐴𝑒 = 2476.267 mm2
𝑃𝑢 = 0.75𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑒
𝑃𝑢 = 0.75 400 2476.267 /1000
𝑃𝑢 = 742.880 < 800 𝑘𝑁 𝑓𝑎𝑖𝑙𝑒𝑑
Solution

Ag1 or
Section Mass Ag prov tf ry 𝐲ത
Ag2

W 5x19 28 3574 10.92 4010.855 32.51 65.40

W 6x20 30 3787 9.27 3878.855 38.10 78.74

W 8x21 31 3974 10.16 3950.055 32.00 105.155

W 10x19 28 3626 10.03 3939.655 22.20 130.05

W 12x19 28 3594 8.89 3848.455 20.88 154.43

Try W 12x19
Check design tensile strength
For yielding
𝑃𝑢 = 0.90𝐹𝑦 𝐴𝑔
𝑃𝑢 = 0.90 250 3594 /1000
𝑃𝑢 = 808. 65𝑘𝑁 > 800 𝑘𝑁 𝑂𝐾
Solution
Check design tensile strength
For fracture 𝑥ҧ W 12x19
154.95 𝑏𝑓 = 101.9 𝑚𝑚
𝐴𝑛 = 𝐴𝑔 − 𝐴ℎ 𝑡𝑓 = 8.89 𝑚𝑚
𝐴𝑛 = 3594 − 80 8.89 𝑡𝑤 = 5.97 𝑚𝑚

𝐴𝑛 = 2882.80 mm2
𝑥ҧ 41.9
𝑈 =1− =1− 𝑥ҧ 101.9 8.89 + 5.97 154.95 − 8.89 =
𝑙 150 101.9 8.89
8.89
+ 5.97 154.95 − 8.89
2
𝑈 = 0.721 < 0.85 154.95−8.89
+ 8.89
2
𝐴𝑒 = 𝑈𝐴𝑛
𝑥ҧ = 42.444
𝐴𝑒 = 0.85 2882.80 𝑥ҧ = 41.9 𝑢𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑊𝑇 6𝑥9.5
𝐴𝑒 = 2450.38 mm2
𝑃𝑢 = 0.75𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑒
𝑃𝑢 = 0.75 400 2450.38 /1000
𝑃𝑢 = 735.114 𝑘𝑁 < 800 𝑘𝑁 𝑓𝑎𝑖𝑙𝑒𝑑
Solution

Ag1 or
Section Mass Ag prov tf ry 𝐲ത
Ag2

W 5x19 28 3574 10.92 4010.855 32.51 65.40

W 6x20 30 3787 9.27 3878.855 38.10 78.74

W 8x21 31 3974 10.16 3950.055 32.00 105.155

W 10x19 28 3626 10.03 3939.655 22.20 130.05

W 12x19 28 3594 8.890 3848.455 20.88 154.43

Try W 10x19
Check design tensile strength
For yielding
𝑃𝑢 = 0.90𝐹𝑦 𝐴𝑔
𝑃𝑢 = 0.90 250 3626 /1000
𝑃𝑢 = 815.85 𝑘𝑁 > 800 𝑘𝑁 𝑂𝐾
Solution
Check design tensile strength
For fracture 𝑥ҧ W 10x19
129.55 𝑏𝑓 = 102.1 𝑚𝑚
𝐴𝑛 = 𝐴𝑔 − 𝐴ℎ 𝑡𝑓 = 10.033 𝑚𝑚
𝐴𝑛 = 3626 − 80 10.03 𝑡𝑤 = 6.35 𝑚𝑚

𝐴𝑛 = 2823.60 mm2
𝑥ҧ 32.50
𝑈 =1− =1− 𝑥ҧ 102.1 10.033 + 6.35 129.55 − 10.033 =
𝑙 150 102.1 10.033
10.033
+ 6.35 129.55 − 10.033
2
𝑈 = 0.783 < 0.85 129.55−10.033
+ 10.033
2
𝐴𝑒 = 𝑈𝐴𝑛 𝑥ҧ = 32.583
𝐴𝑒 = 0.85 2823.60 𝑥ҧ = 32.5 𝑢𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑊𝑇 5𝑥9.5
𝐴𝑒 = 2400.06 mm2
𝑃𝑢 = 0.75𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑒
𝑃𝑢 = 0.75 400 2400.06 /1000
𝑃𝑢 = 720.018 𝑘𝑁 < 800 𝑘𝑁 𝑓𝑎𝑖𝑙𝑒𝑑
Solution

Ag1 or
Section Mass Ag prov tf ry 𝐲ത
Ag2

W 5x19 28 3574 10.92 4010.855 32.51 65.40

W 6x20 30 3787 9.27 3878.855 38.10 78.74

W 8x21 31 3974 10.16 3950.055 32.00 105.155

W 10x19 28 3626 10.03 3939.655 22.20 130.05

W 12x19 28 3594 8.890 3848.455 20.88 154.43

Try W 6x20
Check design tensile strength
For yielding
𝑃𝑢 = 0.90𝐹𝑦 𝐴𝑔
𝑃𝑢 = 0.90 250 3787 /1000
𝑃𝑢 = 852.075 𝑘𝑁 > 800 𝑘𝑁 𝑂𝐾
Solution
Check design tensile strength
𝑥ҧ W 6x20
For fracture 78.75 𝑏𝑓 = 152.9 𝑚𝑚
𝐴𝑛 = 𝐴𝑔 − 𝐴ℎ 𝑡𝑓 = 9.271 𝑚𝑚
𝐴𝑛 = 3787 − 80 9.27 𝑡𝑤 = 6.60 𝑚𝑚

𝐴𝑛 = 3045.40 mm2
𝑥ҧ 14.20
𝑈 =1− =1− 𝑥ҧ 152.9 9.271 + 6.60 78.75 − 9.271 =
𝑙 150 152.9 9.271
9.271
+ 6.60 78.75 − 9.271
2
𝑈 = 0.905 > 0.85 𝑂𝐾 78.75−9.271
+ 9.271
2
𝐴𝑒 = 𝑈𝐴𝑛 𝑥ҧ = 14.26
𝐴𝑒 = 0.905 3045.40 𝑥ҧ = 14.2 𝑢𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑊𝑇 3𝑥10
𝐴𝑒 = 2756.087 mm2
𝑃𝑢 = 0.75𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑒
𝑃𝑢 = 0.75 400 2756.087 /1000
𝑃𝑢 = 826.826 > 800 𝑘𝑁 𝑂𝐾
 Solution
Check block shear strength
W 6x20
𝐴𝑔𝑣 = 4 9.72 190 40
75 75
𝑏𝑓 = 152.9 𝑚𝑚
𝐴𝑔𝑣 = 7387.20 mm2 40
𝑡𝑓 = 9.271 𝑚𝑚
𝑡𝑤 = 6.60 𝑚𝑚
𝐴𝑛𝑣 = 4 9.72 190 − 2.5 ∗ 20
𝑃𝑢 = 800 𝑘𝑁
𝐴𝑛𝑣 = 5443.20 mm2
𝐴𝑛𝑡 = 4 9.72 40 − 20/2
𝐴𝑛𝑡 = 1166.40 mm2
𝑅𝑛 = 0.60𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑣 + 𝑈𝑏𝑠 𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑡 𝜙𝑅𝑛 = 0.75 1574.64
𝑅𝑛 = 0.60 400 5443.20 + 1.0 400 1166.40 𝜙𝑅𝑛 = 1180.98 kN > 800 𝑘𝑁 OK
𝑅𝑛 = 1772.928 kN ∴Use W 6x20
𝑅𝑛𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 0.60𝐹𝑦 𝐴𝑔𝑣 + 𝑈𝑏𝑠 𝐹𝑢 𝐴𝑛𝑡
𝑅𝑛𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 0.60 250 7387.20 + 1.0 400 1166.40
𝑅𝑛𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 1574.64 kN
∴ 𝑈𝑠𝑒 𝑅𝑛𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 1574.64 kN