Comparative analysis approaches for steel portal frame design in industrial buildings

Purpose The purpose of this study is to further investigate the potential benefits brought about by the development of modern technology in the steel construction industry. Specifically, the study focuses on the optimization of tapered members for pre-engineered steel structures, aligning with Eurocode 3 standards. By emphasizing the effectiveness of material utilization in construction, this research aims to enhance the structural performance and safety of buildings. Moreover, it recognizes the pivotal role played by such advancements in promoting economic growth through the reduction of material waste, optimization of cost-efficiency and support for sustainable construction practices. Design/methodology/approach Structural performance at initial analysis and final analysis of the selected critical frame were carried out using Dlubal RSTAB 8.18. The structural frame stability and sway imperfections were checked based on MS EN1993-1-1:2005 (EC3). To assess the structural stability of the portal frame using MS EN 1993-1-1:2005 (EC3), cross-sectional resistance and member buckling resistance were verified based on Clause 6.2.4 – Compression, Clause 6.2.5 – Bending Moment, Clause 6.2.6 – Shear, Clause 6.2.8 – Bending and Shear, Clause 6.2.9 – Bending and Axial Force and Clause 6.3.4 – General Method for Lateral and Lateral Torsional Buckling of Structural Components. Findings In this study, the cross sections of the web-tapered rafter and column were classified under Class 4. These involved the consideration of elastic shear resistance and effective area on the critical steel sections. The application of the General Method on the verification of the resistance to lateral and lateral torsional buckling for structural components required the extraction of some parameters using structural analysis software. From the results, there was only 5.90% of mass difference compared with the previous case study. Originality/value By classifying the web-tapered cross sections of the rafter and column under Class 4, the study accounts for important factors such as elastic shear resistance and effective area on critical steel sections.