History of Steel Beam‐Column Design

Abstract

Design guidance for structural steel members under combined axial and transverse loads, or beam‐columns, has evolved from very simple assumptions to the present ultimate‐strength approaches. The changes in design recommendations have paralleled the state of knowledge of the behavior of these structural elements. Early elastic models have given way to an understanding of inelastic behavior. This paper follows the advances in design recommendations for these members from the late 19th century to the present specifications, including load and resistance factor design. An example of the application of these methods to a typical steel beam‐column is shown. This information on past design methods will be of assistance to structural engineers involved with rehabilitation of vintage structures.