Design of the rafter

5
5.1

Design of the Rafter

Introduction

Portal frame design is usually governed by the verification of members at ultimate limit
service (ULS). Although serviceability limit state (SLS) checks are important, orthodox
frames are generally sufficiently stiff to satisfy the SLS deflection limits. Economy in
the overall frame can usually be achieved by the use of plastic analysis; this requires
Class 1 or 2 sections throughout and Class 1 where there is a hinge which is predicted to
rotate.
Rafters are subject to high bending moments in the plane of the frame, that vary from a
maximum hogging moment at the junction with the column to a minimum sagging
moment close to the apex. They are also subject to overall compression from the frame
action. They are not subject to any minor axis moments. Although member resistance is
important, stiffness of the frame is also necessary to limit the effects of deformed
geometry and to limit the SLS deflections. For these reasons, high strength members are
generally not used in portal frames, but lower steel grades with higher inertias.
Optimum design of portal frame rafters is generally achieved by use of:
1. A cross-section with a high ratio of Iyy to Izz that complies with the
requirements of Class 1 or Class 2 under combined major axis bending and axial
compression.
2. A haunch that extends from the column for approximately 10% of the frame
span. This will generally mean that the maximum hogging and sagging moments
in the plain rafter length are similar.
5.2

Rafter strength

The resistances of all critical cross-sections of the rafter must be verified in accordance
with Section 6 of EN 1993-1-1.
5.3

Rafter Stability

Both in-plane and out-of-plane checks are required. Initially, the out-of-plane checks
are completed to ensure that the restraints are located at appropriate positions and
spacing. In addition to the out-of-plane checks, in-plane checks must be satisfied using
Expression 6.61 of EN 1993-1-1.
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Analysis of selected scheme

5.4

Design Summary

Below is the summary of the design carried out for the rafter. Detailed calculations are
attached after the design summary.
Table 3 - Design summary for the rafter

Description

Remarks

Section used

457 191 82 UB

Rafter classification

Class 1

Shear resistance of rafter

Ok

Bending and shear interaction

May be neglected

Compression resistance

Ok

Combined bending and axial force

May be neglected

Bending resistance

Ok

Axial verification

Ok

Lateral torsional buckling

Ok but purlin distance limited to 1.5 m

Spacing requirements of rafter

1.4 m

Flexural buckling resistance about minor

Ok

axis
Lateral torsional buckling resistance

Ok

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Analysis of selected scheme

Interaction of axial force and bending

Ok

moment
Resistance to buckling and bending

Ok

Interaction of axial force and bending

Ok

moment (Second check)

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