2nd order Versus 1st order Analysis

In this article Im trying to Comparison the result between common second order
analysis methods. We have a portal frame as you can see in figure below.

Geometry of portal fame

Finite element model (evaluation version of Etabs 2013)

Ultimate applied loads

LOAD CASE
Gravity
Lateral

Value
30 /
100 KN

We use four different method to show you the second order effects.
1) Linear analysis and design without P-delta analysis.
2) Linear analysis and design with P-delta analysis general (2nd order method).
3) Nonlinear analysis and design.
4) Linear analysis and design (1st amplified method).

Linear analysis (P-DELTA OFF)

Linear analysis (P-DELTA ON)

Nonlinear analysis

Etabs able to calculate 1 coefficient , but cant able to calculate 2 coefficient, and the
program determined value is taken as 1 in all conditions. Anyway the user can determine
it by himself. Ok let us to calculate this and then assign it to Program.
2 =

2 =

1
1

1
= 1.012
{2 46.23}
1
{7566.7}

= 0.85
= 0.85 100

1
= 7566.7
3.37
(
)
300

1st amplified method

You can see all three methods will result an almost same value for the right hand column.
But the general 2nd order method is more accurate and easy to use.

This article was written by Sadegh Alavi

Structural Designer
Researcher
Teacher
Author

Recourses
1) SFD-AISC-360-10 (Etabs 2013 Steel Frame Design Manual)

Thank you for your attention

808

sadeghalavi@yahoo.com