UNIVERSITY OF SAINT ANTHONY
(Dr. Santiago G. Ortega Memorial)
Iriga City
Name : Monica C. Mata Course : BS ARCHITECTURE
Section : BSAR-4A
ASSIGN ACTIVITY:
1.) Define Tension Member?
Ans.
A tension member is a structural element subjected to forces that tend to elongate or
stretch it. In engineering and construction, these members are crucial for distributing loads and
resisting external forces, such as pulling or stretching forces. Commonly found in bridges,
buildings, and various infrastructure, tension members play a vital role in maintaining structural
integrity. They are often made of materials with high tensile strength, like steel cables, to
efficiently withstand the applied forces. The design and analysis of tension members are
essential aspects of structural engineering, ensuring that structures can withstand the tension
forces they may encounter during their lifespan.
2.) What structural members are subject for Tension?
Ans.
Structural members subjected to tension forces are integral components in engineering
and construction, playing a pivotal role in maintaining the stability and functionality of various
structures. Tension members are elements that bear loads attempting to elongate or stretch
them. These forces commonly arise from external factors such as wind, gravity, or dynamic
loads.
One of the primary materials employed for tension members is steel due to its
exceptional tensile strength. This strength allows steel cables and rods, for instance, to
effectively resist stretching forces, providing structural stability. Tension members are prevalent
in diverse applications, including bridges, buildings, and suspension systems.
In the realm of bridge construction, cables are frequently used as tension members to
support the bridge deck and counteract the gravitational forces acting on it. Similarly, in tall
buildings, tension members contribute to the overall structural integrity by distributing vertical
loads and minimizing deformations caused by external factors.
The design and analysis of tension members are critical aspects of structural
engineering. Engineers meticulously calculate the tensile forces, considering factors like material
properties, safety margins, and the anticipated environmental conditions. This precision ensures
that tension members can endure the expected forces throughout the structure's lifespan,
preventing potential failures and ensuring the safety of the overall construction.
3.) Explain the reduction coefficient U for bolted and riveted correction?
The reduction coefficient U in the context of bolted and riveted connections is a factor
used to account for the efficiency of the joint in transferring loads. It considers imperfections
and variations in real-world connections compared to idealized, perfectly fitting connections.
For bolted connections, U helps adjust the design strength of the joint by considering factors
such as bolt spacing, edge distances, and the number of connected elements. It reflects the
reduced effectiveness of the connection due to practical limitations in achieving ideal
conditions.
Similarly, in riveted connections, the reduction coefficient U serves a comparable purpose. It
addresses the deviations from theoretical assumptions in the design, considering aspects like
pitch, gauge, and the presence of any imperfections in the riveting process.
In essence, U accounts for real-world conditions and imperfections, ensuring that the
designed connection strength aligns with the actual performance of the bolted or riveted joint.
It's a crucial factor in structural engineering to enhance the accuracy and safety of the design.
4.) Provide the following formula
-The allowable tensile capacity based on gross area
Pallowable, gross = Fallowable X Ag
Where:
• Fallowable is the allowable tensile stress (specified by material standards).
• Ag is the gross cross-sectional area of the member subjected to tension.
- The allowable tensile capacity based on effective net area
The allowable tensile capacity of a structural member is often determined by considering the
effective net area. The effective net area takes into account the reduction in cross-sectional area due to
holes, slots, or other discontinuities. The formula for calculating the allowable tensile capacity (Pₙ) based
on the effective net area (Aₑ) is given by:
Pₙ = Aₑ × Fᵤ
where:
Pₙ is the allowable tensile capacity,
Aₑ is the effective net area, and
Fᵤ is the tensile strength of the material.
The effective net area (Aₑ) is calculated using the following formula:
Aₑ = A
5.) Provide step-by step procedure in designing Tension members.
Step 1: Identify Design Parameters and Constraints
1. Determine the Design Load: Understand the magnitude and nature of the tensile load that the
member needs to resist.
2. Material Properties: Identify the material properties, particularly the tensile strength (Fᵤ) , which is
crucial for the design.
3. Design Codes and Standards: Familiarize yourself with the relevant design codes and standards
applicable to the project. Different codes may have specific requirements and methods.
Step 2: Calculate Required Area
1. Determine Allowable Stress: Decide on the allowable stress based on safety factors and code
Fᵤ
requirements. The allowable stress (Fₐ) can be calculated using Fₐ =
Safety Factor
P applied
2. Calculate Required Area: Use the formula Areq = to find the required cross-sectional area.
Fₐ
Step 3: Select Member Geometry
1. Choose Member Type: Decide on the type of tension member, such as a bar, cable, or other forms
based on the application.
2. Select Member Dimensions: Choose appropriate dimensions for the member based on the required
area and available space.
Step 4: Check Stability and Serviceability
1. Check for Buckling: Ensure that the member is stable against buckling. This might involve evaluating
the slenderness ratio and comparing it with code limits.
2. Serviceability Considerations: Check for deflection and other serviceability criteria to ensure that the
member performs adequately under service loads.
Step 5: Detailing
1. Connection Details: Design appropriate end connections for the tension member, considering factors
such as bearing, shearing, and weld details.
Step 6: Documentation
1. Prepare Design Documentation: Clearly document the design calculations, assumptions, and the
selected member dimensions. Include drawings and specifications as necessary.
Step 7: Review and Iterate
1. Review the Design: Have the design reviewed by a qualified engineer, and be open to making
adjustments based on their feedback.
2. Iterate if Necessary: If the initial design doesn't meet the required criteria, iterate the process by
adjusting dimensions, material properties, or other parameters.
Step 8: Finalize and Implement
1. Finalize Design: Once satisfied with the design, finalize all drawings, calculations, and specifications.
2. Implement Design: Communicate the design to the construction team, and ensure that the
implemented tension member follows the approved design.
