UNIT 17 APPROXIMATE METHODS OF

ANALYSIS
Structure
17.1 Introduction
Objectives
17.2 Substitute Frame Method
17.3 Horizontal or Lateral Loading
17.3.1 Portal Method
17.3.2 Cantilever Method
17.4 Mixed Approximate Methods Based on
Existing Exact and Approximate Methods
17.5 Summary
17.6 Keywords
17.7 Answers to SAQs

INTRODUCTION
In statically determinate structures, the analysis of a structure is made without the
knowledge of the cross-sectional dimensions of the members, whereas cross section and
members' elastic properties are prerequisite for the analysis of indeterminate structures.
Therefore, it becomes necessary to perform approximate analysis for deciding preliminary
selection of member sizes. Approximate methods are also useful for quick checking the
results of exact analysis. It is also a powerful tool for carrying out spontaneous scrutiny of
design, which involves large amount of analysis.
In approximateanalysis, the statically indeterminate structure is simprified to a statically
determinate structure by making suitable assumptions based on the experience of the
analyst. Then, the analysis is carried out by using principles of statics. The validity of the
results is based upon assumptions made in the analysis. In this unit, substitute frame method
is described in Section 17.2. The approximate methods such as portal and cantileyer method
are explained in Section 17.3.1 and 17.3.2, respectively.
Objectives
After studying this unit, you should be able to
conceptualise and appreciate the use of approximate methods of analysis,
find out internal forces, i.e. axial force, shear force and bending moment in
any member of a building frame by method of substitute frame method due to
vertical loading,
compute internal forces in beams and columns of a plane frame subjected to
lateral loading, by using portal and cantilever methods, and
find out shear and moment due to transverse loading by generalising and
approximating the facts based on existing exact methods.
Role of Approximate Methods in Design Procedure
The complete analysis of a structure usually requires a knowledge of sizes of all its
members which are determined by design decisions. These decisions must be based
on the knowledge of internal forces in the structure that are result of an analysis.
Therefore, to begin with the structural engineer must make initial guess which is
called "preliminary" design. The preliminary design is often based on approximate
analysis and is strongly influenced by past experience and judgement of an engineer.
Having determined the initial set of member sizes, a more detailed analysis may be
made to determine the forces and displacements. These may then lead to redesign and
subsequent reanalysis. This cycle continues till stresses and deflection criteria
specified in the code is satisfied at a minimum cost. Therefore, in this cyclic process,
approximate analysis plays an important role in the preliminary design.
Miscellaneous
Topics 17.2 SUBSTITUTE FRAME METHOD
The building frame is a three dimensional space structure having breadth, height and length
i.e. x, y and z coordinates. The manual analysis of space structure is tedious and time
consuming. Therefore, approximation is made and the space frame is divided into several
plane frames inx and z directions. Then the analysis of these plane frames is carried out.
Even an analysis of inultistoreyed plane frame is laborious and time-consuming. Therefore,
further simplified assumptioilsis made and analysis of roof or floor beam is made by
considering this beam alongwith colunuls of upper and lower storeys. Columns are
considered as fixed at far ends. Such a simplified beam-column arrangement is called a
substitute frame.

14 15 16 Figure 17.2 (a) : Substitute Frame at Roof Level

I I

GROUND
FLOOR

Figure 17.1 :Typical Plane Frame Figure 17.2 (b) :Substitute Frame at First Floor Level

Normally, a building frame is subjected to vertical as well as horizontal loads. The vertical
loads consist of dead load and live load. The dead load comprises of self weight of beams,
slabs, columns. wall, finishes, water proofing course etc. The horizontal loads consist of
wind forces and earthquake forces.
In order to evaluate ultimate load or factored load, the dead load and live load are multiplied
by a factor which is known as partial safety~factorqf load or simply a load,factor. This
factor is 1.50. In order to evaluate minimum possible dead load on the span which is self
weight, sometimes tliis dead load is multiplied by a factor 0.90 for stability criteria.
Therefore,
Wn,in = D.L. or 0.9 D.L, and
W, = 1.5 (D.L+ L;.L)

The effect of a loaded span on the farther spans is much smaller. The n~oment,shearand
reaction in any element is mainly due to loads on the spans very close to it. Therefore it is .
recommended to put live load on alternate spans and adjacent spans in order to cause severe
effect at a desired location or section.
L

Figure 17.3 (a) : Maximum Hogging Moment at D Figure 17.3 (b) :Max. Sagging Moment at Centre of BC
 Approximate Methods
of Analysis

Figure 17.3 ( c ) :Maximum Sagging Moment Figure 17.3 (d) :Maximum Column Force in a Column
at the Centl-e of CD at D, i.e. Maximum Shear in Beam CD and DE

Figure 17.3 ( e ) : Arrangement of Loads for Maximum Bending Moment in a Cdumn at B

Table 17.1 shows the arrangement of live load (LL) on spans in addition to dead load (DL)
011 all spans depending upon critical condition.

Table 17.1

1 / 1 1
- - - -
- I
SNo. Critical Condition L i v e i a d ( L L ) on spans Reference

1 I I Maximum hogging moment at D 1 DE and CD I Figure 17.3 (a) I

1 2. 1 Maximum ragging moment centreat of B 1 BC: and DE 1 Figure 17.3 (h) ~
H-
I - - - - - - -

,
Minimum sagging moment at centre of C:D AB, CD. and EF Figure 17.3 (c)

Maximum axial force in a c01umli at D, i.e. C:D and DE ' Figure 17.3 (dl
, maximum shear in beam C:D and DE

Maximum moment in columi~at B

1 Longer span on one side
of columli
Figure 17.7 (e)

The restraining effect of any member forming a joint depends also upon Llle restraining
condition existing at the other end. The other end may have following three conditions :
(a) Freely supported or hinged.
(b) Partially restrained. br
(c) Rigidly fixed.
I11 n~oslof the framed structures the far end is considered as rigidly fixed because of
monolithic construction of a joint. I11 a substitute frame, ullbalanced moment at a joint IS
distributed in columns and beams depending upon their ratio of stiffnesses.
Steps for the Analysis
(a) Select a substitdte frame, by taking-floor beam with columns of lower and
upper storeys fixed at far ends.
(b) , Cross sectional dimensions of beams and columns may be chosen such that
moment of inertia of beam is 1.5 to 2 times that of a column and find
distribution factors at a joint considering stiffnesses of beams and columns.
(e). Calculate the dead load and live load on beam. Live load should be placed in
such a way that it causes worst effect at the section considered i.e alternate and
adjacent loading should be adopted.
-..
Miscellaneous (d) Find the initial fixed end moments and analyse this frame by moment
Topics
distribution method.
(e) Finally draw shear and moment diagram indicating values at critical section.
Limitations
(a) Height of all columns should be same in a particular storey.
(b) Sway of substitute frame is ignored even during unsymmetrical loading.
Example 17.1
Analyse the substitute frame shown in Figure 17.4 for
(a) Maximum sagging moment at centre of span BC,
(b) Maximum hogging moment at D,
(c) Minimuni possible nioment at centre of BC,and
(d) Maximum axial force in column at D.
Assume frames are spaced at 3.5 ni centres. Other data is as follows :
Thiclcness of floor slab = 120 mm

Live load = 2w m 2

Floor finish = 1 kN/m2

Size of beam (overall) = 230 x 450 mm
Size of column = 230 x 375 mm

SEC. 22

Solution
Calculation ofLoads
(a) Live load : ql = 3 w / m 2
h a d on beam = 3 x 3.5 m = 10.5 kN/m for all spans.
(b) Dead load : (considering density of RCC as 25 w / m 3 )
(1) D.L. of beam = 25 x 0.23 x 0.33 = 1.8975 kN/m
(2) Floor f i s h = 1 kN/m2

(3) Slab load = 0.12 x 25 = 3 kN/n12

(4) Floor finish + Slab load = 4 kN/m2
(5) Load on beam = 4 x 3.5 m = 14 kN/m
Total dead load (1) + (5) = 15.8975 kN/m
 Calcularion of Disrriburion Factor Approximate Methods
of Analysis

1 I 1 Relative stiffness. I Total Relative 1 Distribution 1

Member (x
Stiffness k) factor
=k/Ck

Fucrored Loads
w, = 1.5 (wd+ wl) = 1.5 (15.8975 + 10.5)

Maxiirium sagging moment at centre of BC

- (a)

Figure 17.5

Fixed end moments are as follows :

MA^ = - ( 15.90x42) = - 21.20 kN m = - MBA

12
MBC = - 66.825 kN 111 = - MCB
McD = - 33.125kNm = - MDc
MDE = - 66.825 kN m = - M,cD
Joint Member . D.F. F.E.M. Fitst C.O. Second C.O. Third Final
Dist. Dist. Dist.
A AA1 0.284 - 2.02 -0.017 3.98

,f
AAz 0.284 - 2.02 - 0.017 3.98
AB 0.432 -21.20 9.16 - 3.07 0.06 - 0.036 - 7.96

B BA 0.312 + 21.20 14.24 0.12 \- 1.53 0.97 39.58

BB1 0.206 0.08 0.64 10.12
B-332 0.206 0.08 0.64 10.12
BC 0.276 - 66.83 12.59
C CB 0.296 + 66.83 -9.97
CC 1 0.2P9 - 7.38 - 0.53 - 10.27
CC2 0.2 19 -7.38 - 0.53 - 10.27
C: D 0.266 - 33.13 - 8.96\

I) DC: 0.266 + 33.13 8.96 / -4.48 4.76 /'- 1.43 0.65 41.59
DD1 0.219 3.92 0.53 11.83
DDz 0.219. 3.92 0.53 11.83
DE 0.296 - 66.83 9.97 /r13.43 5.30 \p- 1.0 0.72 - 65.27

E ED 0.402 + 55.83 - 26.8 4.98 - 2.0 2.65 - 1.06 44.54

EE1 0.299 - 1.49 - 0.8 - 22.27
EE2 0.299 - 1.49 - 0.8 - 22.27

(b) Maximum hogging moment at D in beam and (d) maxlmum axla1 force in
coluinn at D.

Figure 17.6

Fixed end ~llonlelltsare as follows .

MAB = -21.2 k N m = -MBA MBC = - 26.83 kN m = - MCB

Mcn = - 82.50 kN 111 = - MDc MDE = - 66.83 kN m = - ME

- -

Joint Member D.F. F.E.M. Fitst C.0. Second C.O. Third Final
Dist. [list. llist.
I
A AA1 0.284 6.02 - 0.25 0.57 6.34
AA? 0.284 6.02 -0.25 0.57 634
AB 0.432 - 21.20 9. I6
,,
/\r
0.88 - 0.38
I
-2.00 0.86 - 12.86

B BA 0.3 12 + 21.20 1.76 4.58 - 4.00 - 0.19 0.00 23.35

BB 1 0.206 1.16 - 2.64 0.00 - 1 .48
BB2 0.206 1.16 -2.64 0.00 1 -1.48 I
BC: 0.276 - 26.83 1.55 8.24 -3.54 0.19 0.00 - 20.38
/\
C C:B 0.296 + 26.83 16.48 0.77 0.39 - 1.77 0.09 , 42.79
C:C: 1 0.2 19 12.19 0.29 0.07 12.55
CC2 0.2 19 1219 0.29 0.07 1255
CD 0.266 - 82.50 14.81>, - 2.08 0.35 1.46 0.08 -67.88

D DC: 0.296 + 82.50 -4.17/' 7.40

1 7
\r
0.175 -0.17 1 83.66 1
DD1 0.2 19 - 3.43 -0.14 - 1.16
DD2
DE. .
0.219
0.296 - 66.83
-3.43
-4.64 ,-13.43
2.4 1
3.26 , 0.46
-0.14
-0.19
-1.16
-81.37

- 0.49 - 19.78
-0.49 1') 7s
 * The distribution factors for upper column and lower column is same, therefore Approximate Methods
of Annlysis
several steps in moment distribution are common to both at a joint.
C D E
CD DC DE ED
Reaction due to udl 99.00 99.00 89.10 89.10
Reaction due to moment - 3.16 +3.16 +9.29 - 9.29
102.16 98.39
RD= 200.55 kN

1 The maximum moment is at support D

= 83.66kN m and MI)E = - 81.37kN m) and
maximum axial load in column is also at support, D
RD = 200.55 kN.
(c) Minimum moment at centre of BC

Figure 17.7

Fixed end moments are as follows :

Joint Member D.F. F.E.M. First C.O. Second C.O. Third Final
Dist. Dist. Dist.
I
A AAi 0.284 15.00 1.15 0.87 17.02
AA2 0.284
AB 0.432 -52.80 22.81 ,7-4.05 1.75 ,,-3.06 1.32 -34.03
/I
B BA 0.312 + 52.80 - 8.10 11.40 - 6 . 1 3 ~ ' 0.87 -0.78 50.06
BB 1 0.206 - 5.35 - 4.04 ' -0.51 -9.90
BBz 0.206 - 5.35 - 4.04 -0.50 - 0.90
BC 0.276 -26.83 -7.17, 8.24 -5.42, 1.62 -0.69 -30.25

I C CB 0.296 +26.83 16.48 "- 3.58 3.25 -2.71 0.88

0.65
41.15
15.24
0.65 15.24
I

. - .

".a' [, 1
! ,. . ,\ri:~lyxcille strh~tirulct'ranlc. show11ill Figrlrc 17.8 Ior ( a i rnaximun~span
1:!\vlielll i l k FG: ( h )~ l i ; ~ ~ i colurnll a1 F: ; u ~ d(c) 111irri1nu111
l u ~ ~ i n~c~lncnl
\ spi111
in
~i>t;tiicn~ FG.
 ((7) Analyse l i e fl(mr ABCI) of inlcrnldinfe thrn~eshown in Figure 17.0 by
substitute frame method in lerlns of computing (a) maximum hogging moment
at B, (b) maximum sagging moment in span CD. ;md ! c ) maximum axial lea$
in colunui at B. Tlic frames are spnccd a( 4.5 111ccntrcs. Live lo;~dis 4 kN/in-.
Thickness of Hoor slab is 150 mm.Floor finish is 1 kN/ln-. iwerall size of the
heam is 230 x 350 mm ant1 siztl of column is 230 x 350 Inm. Thickness of
wall may be assumed as 150 mln.

Figure 17.9

17.3 HORIZONTAL OR LATERAL LOADING

A building frame usually carries horizontal or lateral load as shown in Figure 17.10 (a) due
to wind or earthguake and deforms due to such loads as shown in Figure 17.10 (b). From
this exaggerated shape of deformed frame, we can assume that point of contraflexure lies
approximately at centres of column and centres of beam.

Figure 17.10 (a) :Building Frnme Subjected to R p r e 17.10 (b) :Deflected Shape of Frame
L a t e d Loading
There are two methods, viz. (a) portal method, and (b) cantilever method, which are ApprUNIIWl+:L V l r l u U U >
of Analysis
generally employed for the approximate analysis of frames subjected to horizontal loading.

17.3.1 Portal Method

The following assumptions are made to simplify the given framed structure to a statically
determinate one :
(a) Point of centraflexure is located at mid height of each column,
(b) Point of contraflexure is located at centre of each beam, and
(c) The horizontal shear is divided among all the columns on the basis that each
interior column takes twice the shear carried by the exterior column.
In the third assumption, exterior column corresponds to single portal leg and interior column
corresponds to two portal legs. Hence, it is reasonable to assume interior column to carry
twice the shear of exterior column.
Steps for Analysis
(a) The shear in columns of a particular storey is found out by equating to storey
shear, i.e lateral load on the frame above that section.
(b) Moments at the end of a column are determined by multiplying the column
shear with half the length of the column.
(c) The moments at the ends of beams is computed by considering the equilibrium
of each joint separately. The column moments obtained from Step (b) is
known and the beam moment which is unknown can be determined.
(d) Since the moment in be'un is known from Step (c) the reactions and hence,
shear in beam is determined.
(e) Axial force in column is the algebraic sum of reactions from the beams.
(f) Finally, carry out the check of = 0 and x F y = 0 at the supports.
Limitations
(a) This method is useful for low rise building.
(b) This method is unsuitable for building frames having different number of bays
at different tloors.
Example 17.2
Using portal method, analyse the frame shown in Figure 17.11 for shear force,
bending moment and axial force in all members. Area of each column is same, i.e.
unity.

Figure 17.11

Solution
Step (1) :Shear in Each Storey
Let P be the shear in each exterior column of one storey, then 2 P shall be the shear
in each interior column of that storey.
Miscellaneous For the first storey, total horizontal shear resisted by the column is equal to
Topics (a)
total horizontal forces acting above XI XI as shown in Figure 17.12.
PI + 2P1 + 2P1 + PI = 120 + 80 r 200 kN
P1 = 33.33 kN and 2P1 = 66.67 kN
(b) Similarly, for second storey, total horizontal shear resisted by the column is
equal to total horizontal forces acting above X2 X2 as shown in Figure 17.12.
P2 + 2P2 + 2P2 + P2 = 80 kN
PZ = 13.33 kN and 2 P2 = 26.67 kN

Figure 17.12 :Horizontd Shear for each Storey

Step (2) : Moments at the Ends of Columns

As there is a point of contratlexure at the centre of column, the moments can be
detennined by considering the free body diagram of column members. Refer
Figure 17.12 and consider column AE. Due to column shear, joint moment at E,

MEA, = P x ($1 = 83.33 (clrkwise).

Coilsidering equilibrium at the cross section, equal and opposite to joint moment.
column end moment will be

It is represented in Figure 17.13. Similarly, for all columns, the joint moments and
column end moments can be calculated as shown in Figure 17.1 3 (a) md (h!

Figure 17.13 (hi

Elid Mon~crlttsat Storey -2
63 3 3
T M E A

Figure 17.13
Step (3) : Moments at the End of Beam Approximate Methods
of Analysis
Considering the equilibrium at each joint due to joint moments as shown in
Figure 17.13 (a) and (b), the joint moments for beams can be computed as given
under :
Joint I
CM=0 --+ MIE+ MIJ = 0

MIJ = - MIE = - 26.67 kN In (anticlockwise)

Left end moment in beam IJ (taking equal and opposite),
MIJ = + 26.67 kN m (clockwise)
Since the point of contraflexure lies at the centre of IJ, right end moment in
beam 1J
MJ1 = .- MIJ = 26.67 kN m (clockwise)
which is explained in Step (4).
Therefore, joint moment (considering equal and opposite)
MJ1 = - 26.67 kN m (anticlockwise)
.Joint J
CM = 0 + M J r + M j ~ + M j K= 0;
Thus, MJK = - (MJI + MJF)
= - [ - 26.67 (anticlockwise)+ 53.33 (clockwise)]
= - 26.67 kN m (anticlockwise)
From free body diagram of beam JK, end moments
MKJ = MJK = 26.67 kN m (clockwise)
Similarly, moments in members at joints K and L can be worked out and final
result is shown in Figure 17.13.
Joint E
CM=O+ MEA+MEF+MEI=O;
Thus, MEF = - (MEA+ MEJ
= - [83.33 (clockwise) + 26.67 (clockwise)]
= - 110 k.Nm (anticlockwise)
From free body diagram of beam EF,
ME^ = 110 k.Nm (clockwise) = MFE
Joint F

Thus, MFG = - (MFE + MFB + MFJ)

= - [ - 110 (anticlockwise)+ 166.67 (clockwise)
+ 53.33 (clockwise)]
= - 110 kN m (anticlockwise)
From free body diagram of beam EF,
MFG = 110 kN m (clockwise) = MGF
Similarly, moments in members at joint G andH can be worked out and is
shown in Figure 17.13.
Step (4) :Shears in the Beams
Consider a beam element 1-2 as shown in Figure 17.14 (a) which is subjected to end
moments M1 and M2. As there is no lateral load considering F,= 0.
S1 + S2 = 0 4 S2 = - S1 therefore, S2 will be acting downwards.
Miscellaneous As there is a hinge in the centre of the beam and moment at hinge is zero.
Topics
M 1 = S1 (Ll2) (clock wise) is given moment.
M2 = S2 (Ll2) which is also clock wise.
As S1 and S2 are equal and opposite,
M 1 = M2.
For beam IJ, the end moments are Mlj 'and MJIboth clockwise as shown in
Figure 17.13. At the end of a beam SIJwill be upward and SJIwill be downword.
Taking the equilibrium near the joint, SIJ at the joint I will be downward while SIJ
near joint J is upward as shown in Figure 17.14 (b).

Figure 17.14 (a) Figure 17.14 (b)

Step (5) :Axial Forces in Columns

For determination of axial forces in column the equilibrium of joints are considered
at first joint I
CFy= 0
AIE + SIJ = 0 4AIE = - SIJ = 13.33 kN (upward)
The equal and opposite axial force AIE= 13.33 kN (downward) is directed towards
the hinge in the Figure 17.15. The presence of hinge will not effect the axal force AEI,
when equilibrium of column member is considered.
Therefore, axial force at member end = 13.33 kN (upward) and axial force at
joint E = 13.33 kN (downward).
The axial forces in other columns can be computed which is shown in Figure 17.15.

Figure 17.15 :Axial Force in Columns and Shear in Beams (Portal Method)
 From Figure 17.13, the end moments for free bodies of columns and beams are Approximate Methods
of Analysis
considered (ignoring the end moments for joints) and Figure 17.16 is redrawn.

Figure 17.16 :Bending Moments at Ends of Columns and Beams (Portal Method)

The bending moment'diagram (depicted on tension side) can be drawn and is shown in
Figure 17.17.

EYgure 17.17 :Bending Moment Diagram of fnune (depicted on temion side)

SAQ 2
X n a l y ; ~the fra~riesshown i11 Figure 17.18 (;I) ;uld Figu1.e 17. I ti ( b j by pi)rt:il !l!i:ll~ ){ i
Miscellaneous 17.3.2 Cantilever Method
Topics
This method is based on the assumption that the frame is acting like a cantilever beam with
the column cross sectional areas as the fibers in a beam. The assumptions made in the
analysis are as follows ,
(a) Point of contraflexure (i.e., zero bending moment) is located at the mid height
of the column in each storey.
(b) Point of contreflexure is located at the mid point of each beam, and
(c) The axial force in each column is proportional to its distance from the centre
of gravity of the areas of column group at that level.
The third assumption includes the effects of columns having different cross sectional areas.
The stress intensities can be obtained by method analogous to that used for determining the
distribution of normal stress intensities on a transverse section of a cantilever beam.
Steps for the Analysis
(a) Determine centre of gravity of column groups from areas of columns (column
area may be assumed unity).
(b) Consider the equilibrium of the particular storey at the section of point of
contraflexure in columns. Other column axial forces are expressed in terms of
one unknown column axial force. as they are assumed proportional to the
distance from centre of gravity. Taking moment of external loads and axial
forces in columns about any point at the section, the unknown forces in the
columns are evaluated.
(c) The beam shear is calculated by using condition, C F , = 0 at each joint
separately. The column axial force is known from Step (b).
(d) The moment at the end of the beam is beam shear multiplied by half the length
of beam. Since the point nf contraflexure is assunied at the centre of the beam.
(e) The column moments are determined by consideriilg condition M = 0 at
each joint separately. The moment at the ends of the beams is known from
Step (d).
(f) Finally, carry out check of C F , = 0 and C F , = 0 at tlle supports.
Limitations
(a) This method is useful for tall narrow buildings.
(b) The method is not applicable to fraines having different cross sectional areas
of tlle same columi at different floors.
Example 17.3
Using the cantilever inetlx~d,analyse the frame shown in Figure 17.1 1 for shear
force. bending inoinent and axial force in all members. Area of each column IS same,
i.e. unity.
Solution
Step (1) : Centre of Gravity of Column CSroup
Let cross sectional area of each colurrul be 'a'. By taking ~nonientsof areas of
columns about column AI, we get the centroid of colunln group from column A1 is at
a distance of x which is computed as below :
( a x 0) +(o x 4 ) + ((1 x 10) + ((7 x 15)
X =
(4 x 0)

Step (2) :Axial Forces in Column

As we have assumed that the frame is acting as a cantilever, therefore, axial forces in
columns will be in proportion to the distance from CG of column group.
Let PAEbe the axial force in column AE, the axial force in the other column shall be
as shown in Figure 17.19.
 Approximate Methods
of Analysis

As the point of contraflexure lies at the centre of column, the moment is zero at such
locations. Taking moments about XI (point of contraflexure in column AE),
(80 x 6.5) + (120 x 2.5) + ( P ~ ~ x 4 . -0 )(PCGX10) - (PDHX 15) = O
820 + (0.448 PA^ x 4.0) - (0.379 PAEx 10.0) - (1.069 PAEx 15) = 0
Giving,
PA^ = +45.47 kN, PcG = - 17.23 kN
PBF = +20.37 kN, PDH = -48.61 kN

.
I
I -
R p r e 17.20
Similarty, for top storey (Referring to Figure 17.20)
-
PFj = 0.448 PEI,

I PGK = - 0.379 PE! ,and

PHL = - 1.069 PEI
Taking moment about X2 point of contratlexure in column EI,
(80 x 2.0) + (PFJx 4.0) - (PGKx 10.0) - (PHLx 15.0) = 0
160 + (0.448 P,yI x 4.0) - f0.379 PEIx 10.0) - (1.069 PE1X 15) = 0
Giving,
Pm = 8.87 kN, PG,y = - 3.36 l
dl
PFJ = 3.97 kN, PHL = - 9.48 kN
Miscellaneous
Topics

zby= 0; 315 + PIE = 0

sIJ= - PIE = - 8.87 kN (downward)
= 8.87 kN (upward)
Shear at the end I in the free body diagram of beam IJ is
SIJ = - 8.87 kN (upward)
= 8.87 kN (downward)
Beam IJ
c Fy = 0; sJI+ SIJ = 0
SJI = - SIJ = - 8.87 kN (downward)
= 8.87 kN (upward)
Joint J
F, = 0; SJI + PJF + SJK = 0
SJK = - (PJF + SJI)
= - r8.87 (downward) + 3.97 (downward)]
= 12.84 kN (upward)
Therefore, in heam JK, at the end J,
SJK = - 12.84 kN (upward)
= 12.84 kN (upward)
Beam JK
F y = 0; SKJ + SJK = 0
SKJ = - SJK = - 12.84 kN (downward)
= 12.84 kN (upward)
Similarly, shear in the other beams can be determined and are shown in Figure 17.21.

Figure 17.21 :Axial Forces in Cola~lnsm d Shear in Beama (Cndilever Method)

Step (4) : Moments at the Ends of Beams Approximate Methods
of Analysis
As discussed in portal method, refering Figure 17.14 (a), we have

MI =Six[:] and M 2 = s 2 x [ : )

Both are equal and in same direction,

= 17.74 kN m (clockwise)

= 38.52 kN m (clockwise)
Moments in all other beams are determined in the similar manner and are shown in
Figure 17.22.

Rgure 17.12 : L I I Alu~t~ents

~ .and Joint M o ~ n e ~(Cantilever
~ts Method)

Step (5) : Moments ;I[ I 11 r I<ildsof Columns (Refer Figure 17.22)

The moments at the ends ol columns can be determined by considering free body
diagram of the joints.
.Joint I
CM = 0; MIE + MIJ = 0
Joint moment M[E = - MIJ = - 17.74 kN m
= 17.74 kN nl (clockwise)
But from free body diagram of column M ~ will
E have opposite direction.
Hence,
End moment MIE = - 17.74 kN m (clockwise)
= 17.74 kNm (anticlockwise)
Also as the point of'contraflexure lies at centre,
End moment ME[ = MIE = 17.74 kN m (anticlockwise)
Hence,
Joint moment ME[ = 17.74 kN m (clockwise)
 Joint J
M = 0; MJI+ M J K + M J F = O
Joint moment MJF = - (MJI + MJK)
= - (17.74 + 38.52)
= 56.26 kN m (clockwise)
But from free body diagram of column MJF will have opposite direction.
Hence,
End moments MJF = - 56.26 W m (clockwise)
= 56.26 kN m (anticlockwise)
Also as the point of contraflexure lies at centre,
End moment MFJ = MJF = 56.26 kN m (anticlockwise)
Similarly, moments at the ends of other columns can be determined and are shown in
Figure 17.22. The bending moment diagram is shown in Figure 17.23.

Figure 17.23 :Bending Moment Dingram (Ckntilever Method)

SAQ 3
r i (a) and (b)by Canlilever Method.
Analyve the frames shown in ~ i ~ u17.18

- -

17.4 MIXED APPROXIMATEMETHODS BASED ON

EXISTING EXACT AND APPROXIMATE METHODS
Portal frames subjected to vertical loading can also be analysed based upon approximations
derived from certain facts in existing exact methods.
The study of bending moment diagrams of single span beam with different end conditions
and different loading reveals that,
* beam having both ends fixed and carrying uniformly distributed load has point
of contraflexure or point of zero bending moment at 0.21 L from fixed ends,
* a beam having both ends hinged, carrying uniformly distributed load has zero
moment points only at the supports,
* a beam having both'ends fixed and carrying point load at centre, pointy of
contraflexure is at 0.25 L from supports, and
* a beam having one end fixed and other hinged and carrying point load at centre,
the contraflexure point is at 0.27 L from fixed support.
 Approximate Methotls
It is concluded therefore, that the point of zero moment lies at a distance varying from zero of Analysis
at support to 0.27 L from support for different ends conditions and different loadings.
Hence, it can be generalised and assumed for approximate analysis that a point of
contraflexure~sat 0.1 L from the ends and the analysis of indeterminate frame is made by
converting the frame into determinate one, after introducing points of contraflexure as
shown in Figure 17.24.

Figure 17.24 (a) :Assumed Point of Contratlexure Figure 17.24 (b) :Determinate Structure

SAQ 4
Analysl: the frame shown in Figure 17.25 by the inixed method.

Figure 17.25

SUMMARY
Analysis of indeterminate structures using approximate methods is quicker
method of scrutinizing the structures. This is also useful for preliminary design.
Substitute frame method is used for analysis of roof or floor beams along with
columns of upper and lower storeys. It is usdd for vertical loading.
Portal and cantilever methods of approximate analysis are used to compute
internal forces in multistoreyed multibay frames subjected to horizontal forces.
Low rise frames may be analysed by using portal method which is based on
following assumptions :
1
(a) Shear force in exterior column = - [ Shear Force in interior column]
2
(b) Points of contraflexure are located at centre of beams & columns.
 Tall and narrow frames are analysed by using cantilever method, which is
based on following assumptions :
(a) Axial force in columns are proportional to distance from the C.G. of the
cross sectional areas of the columns.
(b) Point of contraflexure is at centre of columns and beams.
Mixed method based on summary of exact results of beams subjected to
vertical loading assumes that there are points of centraflexure at a distance of
0.10 of span length from supports. In case of portal frames moment at a joint
in column is found out by equilibrium condition and moment at the base of
column is simply a carry over.

17.6 KEY WORDS

Substitute Frame : Roof or floor beam with column of upper and lower storeys fixed
at far ends.
Plane Frame : It is a frame having member only in one plane, say xy or yz.
Space frame comprises of several such plane frames in both
planes xy and yz.
Portal Method : Each bay of portal is tested separately and hence, the shear in
exterior column is half of the shear in interior column, therefore
it is named as mrtal method.
Cantilever Method : Frame is tested as cantilever fixed at base and force in any
column (fibre of frame) is proportional to the distance of centre
of gravity and hence, this is known as cantilever method.
Conventional : Any method of analysis which is established by using the
Method conventional theory of force displacement relation such as
consistent deformation method, three moment theorem, moment
distribution method, slope deflection method and strain energy
method etc.
Point of : It is the point where bending moment changes sign, i.e. bending
Contraflexure moment at this point is zero.

17.7 ANSWERS TO SAQs

SAQ 2
(a) MEI = 10.0kN m (ACW)
MEF = 43.33 kN m (CW)
M a = 33.33 kN m (ACW)
MGF = 43.34 kN m (CW)
MGK = 20 kN m (ACW)
M G =~ 43.33 kN m (CW)
MCx = 66.67 kN m (ACW)
(b) Shear in column for top storey = 40 kN
Shear in column for middle storey = 100 kN
Shear in column for lower storey = 160 kN
SAQ 3
(a) ME/ = 6.10 kN m (ACW)
M,qF = 26.49 kN m (CW)
ME* = 20.39 kN m (ACW)
MGF= 51.38 kN m (CW)
 M G =~ 23.88 kN m (ACW) Approximate Methocls
of Analysis
MGH = 52.20 kN m (CW)
MGC = 79.70 kN m (ACW)
(b) For top storey, centre of gravity of two columns EG and FH is to be evaluated
and for bottom two storeyes the centre of gravity of three column should be
evaluated
I SAQ 4
Assume point of cantratlexure at 1m from points E, F, C, and D. Analyse the
detenninate beam, between points of cantraflexureand then, analyse cantilever of
1 m length.
I
McE = 450 kN m (CW)
MpD = 900 kN m (ACW)
MCA = 450 kN m (CW)
FURTHER READING
Reddy, C. S., Basic Structural Analysis, Tata McGraw Hill Publishing Company Ltd., 1996.
Naris, C. H. and Wilbur, J. B., Elementary Structural Analysis, McGraw Hill Book
Company Inc., New York, International Student Edition.
Rao Prakash, D. S., Structural Analysis - A UnitedApproach, University Press (India) Ltd.,
Hyderabad.
Junarkar, S. B., Mechanics ofStmture, Vol 11, Charotar Publishing House, Anand, 1989.
Kinny, J. S., Indeterminate Structural Analysis, Oxford and IBH Publishing Company Pvt.
Ltd., New Delhi.