D4.C.2.1 Code Checking

The program compares the resistance of members with the applied load effects, in accordance with CSA 136. Code checking is carried out for locations specified via the SECTION command or the BEAM parameter. The results are presented in a form of a PASS/FAIL identifier and a RATIO of load effect to resistance for each member checked. You may choose the degree of detail in the output data by setting the TRACK parameter.

Refer to D1.B.1.3 Code Checking for general information on Code Checking. Refer to TR.49 Code Checking Specification for details the specification of the Code Checking command.

D4.C.2.2 Member Selection

You may request that the program search the cold formed steel shapes database (AISI standard sections) for alternative members that pass the code check and meet the least weight criterion. In addition, a minimum and/or maximum acceptable depth of the member may be specified. The program will then evaluate all database sections of the type initially specified (i.e., channel, angle, etc.) and, if a suitable replacement is found, present design results for that section. If no section satisfying the depth restrictions or lighter than the initial one can be found, the program leaves the member unchanged, regardless of whether it passes the code check or not.

Refer to D1.B.1.4 Member Selection for general information on Member Selection. Refer to TR.49.1 Member Selection Specification for details the specification of the Member Selection command.

D4.C.2.3 Code Sections Implemented

The program calculates effective section properties in accordance with Clauses 5.6.2.1 through 3 and 5.6.2.6 through 8. Cross-sectional properties and overall slenderness of members are checked for compliance with

• Clause 5.3, Maximum Effective Slenderness Ratio for members in Compression

• Clause 5.4, Maximum Flat Width Ratios for Elements in Compression

• Clause 5.5, Maximum Section Depths.

The program will check member strength in accordance with Clause 6 of the Standard as follows:

• Resistance factors listed in Clauses 6.2 (a), (b), and (e) are used, as applicable.

• Members in tension - Resistance is calculated in accordance with Clauses 6.3.1 and 6.3.2.

• Members in bending and shear

Resistance calculations are based on Clauses:

• 6.4.1 General,
• 6.4.2 and 6.4.2.1 Laterally Supported Members, compressive limit stress based on Initiation of Yielding,
• 6.4.3 Laterally Unsupported Members,
• 6.4.4 Channels and Z-Shaped Members with Unstiffened Flanges - additional limitations,
• 6.4.5 Shear in Webs,
• 6.4.6 Combined Bending and Shear in Webs.

• Members in compression

  Resistance calculations are based on Clauses:

  • 6.6.1.1, 6.6.1.2 (a) and (d), and 6.6.1.3 General,
  • 6.6.2 Sections Not Subject to Torsional-Flexural Buckling,
  • 6.6.3 Singly Symmetric Sections,
  • 6.6.4 Point-Symmetric Sections,
  • 6.6.5 Cylindrical Tubular Sections.

• Members in compression and bending

  Resistance calculations are based on Clause 6.7.1, Singly and Doubly Symmetric Sections. Input for the coefficients of uniform bending must be provided.