Various cross-sectional shapes of steel members are commonly used as tension members in structural applications. These include wide-flange sections, angle sections, channel sections, tee sections, hollow tubes, solid rods, and cables.
Types of Steel Sections
According to the provided reference, the following types of steel sections are available for use as tension members:
- Wide-flange sections (W-shape): These sections have a shape resembling the letter 'H' and are widely used due to their efficiency in carrying loads.
- Angle sections: L-shaped steel sections, often used individually or in pairs.
- Channel sections: U-shaped sections with flanges on one side, frequently used in bracing and trusses.
- Tee sections: Formed by cutting wide-flange or channel sections, resulting in a 'T' shape.
- Hollow circular or square tubes: Tubular sections, offering good strength-to-weight ratios.
- Tension rods (solid circular or square sections): Simple solid bars, often used for bracing or as tie rods.
- Cables: Flexible bundles of wires, primarily used for very long spans or as hangers.
These shapes are selected based on factors like the required tensile strength, connection methods, cost, and architectural considerations.
Summary Table of Section Types
Here is a quick overview of the steel section types used as tension members:
| Section Type | Description | Common Shapes |
|---|---|---|
| Wide-flange sections | 'H' shaped cross-section | W-shape |
| Angle sections | 'L' shaped cross-section | Single angle, Double angle |
| Channel sections | 'U' shaped cross-section | C-shape |
| Tee sections | 'T' shaped cross-section | WT-shape, MT-shape, ST-shape (from W, M, S) |
| Hollow tubes | Enclosed cross-section | Circular Hollow Section (CHS), Square Hollow Section (SHS) |
| Tension rods | Solid cross-section | Circular bar, Square bar |
| Cables | Flexible bundle of wires | Strands, Ropes |
This variety allows engineers to choose the most suitable and efficient member for specific structural requirements involving tension forces.
