The Direct Analysis Method - What Happened to the K-Factor? [N3A]

Most designers understand the general concepts of structural stability, however many have questions regarding the specifics of the three stability analysis procedures in AISC 360-10. Likewise, many engineers (the speaker included) have had questions over the years about the role of the K-factor in stability analysis. This presentation will answer those questions. The three stability analysis procedures--the Direct Analysis Method, the Effective Length Method and the First-Order Analysis Method will be reviewed. At the end of the presentation, attendees will understand how all three procedures are based on the same fundamental principles. Included will be a review of theK-factor--a discussion of its role in stability analysis since its introduction in the 1963Specification, and whyK=1 when the Direct Analysis Method is used.

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