RAM Structural System Help

δs Factor

The δs factor is an amplifier to account for the P-Δ effects (large P-delta, second order effects caused by relative displacement of the member ends). The δs factor is calculated for each rigid diaphragm, and differs for each combination. δs is given as:
δ s = 1 1 Δ s Σ N * h s Σ V * 1 Eq. C4.4.2.3(i)
where
ΣN*
=
total vertical load supported by story using AS/NZS load combinations, including gravity column loads
ΔS
=
the interstory drift (calculated per load combination) and it is based on the drift at the center of diaphragm masses
ΣV*
=
the story/diaphragm shear (calculated per load combination)
hs
=
the story height

The δs factors are found in such a way that diaphragm shear forces and story drift values are first resolved along member local system and then the δs factors are calculated according to Eq. (C4.4.2.3(i)).

Note: AS 4100 mandates that if δs exceeds 1.4 the user should consider applying a second order analysis according to the provisions of Appendix E. It is the engineers responsibility to select P-Delta for the analysis in the event that situation occurs.