Distortional buckling of thin-web beam-columns

Abstract An approximate finite element method of analysis is developed for the distortional buckling of beam-columns. The member consists of a flexible web, to which is connected two rigid flange assemblies of arbitrary shape which remain undistorted during buckling. The method permits an economic computer analysis to be made of elastic distortional buckling of members under various conditions of loading, end support and restraint. Following studies of the convergence and accuracy of the buckling solutions, the method is used to demonstrate the effects of web distortion on the elastic buckling of lipped channel beams under moment gradient.