Analysis-Based Design Provisions for Steel Storage Racks: Fid-Bau Portal

Analysis-Based Design Provisions for Steel Storage Racks

Rasmussen, K. J. R. / Gilbert, B. P.

Abstract

The paper summarizes the main new design provisions included in the recently revised Australian standard for steel storage racks. The standard features multitiered analysis provisions ranging from basic linear-elastic analysis-based provisions to highly advanced integrated design-analysis [geometric and material nonlinear analysis with imperfections (GMNIA)] provisions that allow the analysis and design to be completed in one step. The GMNIA provisions distinguish between beam element–based and shell element–based analysis according to cross section slenderness and provide rules for the imperfections to use for the two types of analysis, including imperfections in the local and distortional buckling modes for the shell element–based analysis. The selection of the system-based reliability (resistance) factor ( $ϕ_{s}$ ) is discussed. The standard is seen as the most advanced design code of its type currently available for frame-type steel structures. The paper also provides an in-depth discussion about the use of linear and nonlinear elastic analysis methods for the design of steel storage racks and how torsion may be considered in determining design capacities while not in the structural analysis.