Action > TempVar
Calculation of the equivalent linear strain corresponding to a given non-linear temperature distribution. The temperature distribution is given by a set of reference points with defined temperature value collected in a Reference Set of the type "Temperature points". Results are stored in a specified load set as fixed end forces (load type TB) equivalent to the give temperature distribution. This load set can be addressed in a subsequent load case calculation.
Non-linear Temperature Distribution
Some design codes require a non-linear variation of the temperature over the cross-section to be investigated. This is for instance the case in the
- AASHTO Code, Australian Standard
- British Standard BS 5400, Korean Standard
All these Standards only require considering a non-linear variation in the vertical direction. A constant distribution may be assumed for the horizontal direction and may be combined with the non-linear case. This fact has been considered in the program, and therefore only a distribution in the local y-direction can be defined.
Some codes prescribe the temperature state to be investigated as a function of the distance of the point from the upper surface and the bottom surface of the cross-section; other formulations refer to the related distances (with respect to the total cross-section height). Also mixed formulations can occur.
Two cases have usually to be investigated: a temperature increase and a temperature decrease. The required variations for these 2 cases generally differ and 2 separate Load Cases have therefore to be investigated.