T.R. Higgins Lecture: Effective Bracing of Flexural Members and Systems in Steel Buildings and Bridges [K2]

This lecture will focus on the stability of flexural systems in steel buildings and bridges with a particular emphasis on bracing requirements. The presentation will highlight the results from large-scale experiments and computational studies on I-shaped beams and box girders. Discussions on lean-on bracing techniques, system buckling of narrow girder systems, and other bracing applications will be highlighted. Several factors that impact the effectiveness of bracing will be emphasized along with simple design methodologies for various bracing system applications. Bio: Todd Helwig, PhD, a professor at University of Texas (Austin), is the 2017 recipient of the T.R. Higgins Lectureship Award. His lecture will focus on the stability of flexural systems in steel buildings and bridges with a particular emphasis on bracing requirements. The presentation will highlight the results from large-scale experiments and computational studies on I-shaped beams, trusses, and box girders. Discussions on lean-on techniques, system buckling of narrow girder systems, and other bracing applications will be highlighted. The impact of a number of factors on the effectiveness of bracing will be emphasized along with simple design methodologies for various bracing system applications. Helwig currently holds the J. Neils Thompson Teaching Fellowship in Civil Engineering at UT Austin. He has also co-developed and taught a number of courses for the Structural Stability Research Council (SSRC), AISC, and the National Highway Institute (since 1994, more than 5,000 practicing engineers have attended his lectures). Among his awards are the ASCE Collingwood Research Prize, the ASCE Moisseiff Award, and the ASCE Shortridge Hardesty Award. He was recognized in 2005 with a top innovation award by the TxDOT for his work related to lateral bracing of bridge girders on permanent metal deck forms. In 2010, his work on stability bracing systems in steel bridges was recognized by AISC with a Special Achievment Award. He is currently the chair of SSRC.

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