Procedure for Analysis

1. draw FBDs of spans and joints

2. determine distribution factors and fixed-end moments (click)
a. identify joints (free ends are not joints)
b. determine stiffness factor K for each span (click)
K = 4EI/L for far-end fixed
K = 3EI/L for far-end pinned or roller supported
K = 2EI/L for symmetric span and loading
K = 6EI/L for antisymmetric loading
K = for ground
K = 0 for air
c. determine distribution factor DF=K/K for each span (click)
DF = 0 for fixed end
DF = 1 for an end pin or roller supported
DF = 0 for overhung (free) side of joint; DF = 1 for other side
DF = 1 at each joint
d. determine FEMs from inside back cover (positive = clockwise)
3. perform moment distribution process (click)
a. lock all joints
b. determine moment needed for joint equilibrium (switch sign)
c. unlock pin and roller joints (fixed joints stay locked) and distribute the
counterbalancing moments into the connecting span at each joint
d. use +1/2 carry-over factor to carry half of these moments to span's other end (click)
don't carry from fixed joints
don't carry to end pin or roller joints
don't carry to free ends
e. repeat until desired degree of accuracy is reached (don't carry-over final distribution)
f. sum columns of FEMs, distributed moments, and carry-over moments
4. place summed moments on FBDs
5. use equilibrium to determine shear forces and ground forces
6. draw V&M diagrams