Portal Frame Design

Portal frames account for around 50% of the structural steel used in the UK. Despite the widespread use of software, and the accumulated experience in the UK of the design and construction of portal frames, a number of issues are not well understood. The course aims to provide in-depth coverage of the major issues surrounding the analysis, design and detailing of portal frames. The course primarily covers design to BS5950 and an explanation of the major differences in BS EN 1993-1-1.

The objectives of this course are to:

• explain the background to the BS5950: Part 1 clauses;
• introduce a range of practical issues which have a critical impact on the design of portal frames;
• explain the application of BS 6399 to portal frame design;
• clarify the issues of:
  • in-plane frame stability;
  • member stability and restraints;
  • serviceability checks;
  • multi-span portals.
• introduce the requirements of BS EN 1993-1-1 for portal frames;
• comment on the design of portal frame connections.

Having attended this course you will be able to:

• properly assess the loading on a portal frame structure;
• understand the underlying principles of the BS 5950: Part 1 requirements for portal structures;
• confidently check the analysis, design and details of a portal structure;
• understand the application of BS EN 1993-1-1 to portal frames.

Who should attend?

The course is aimed at structural designers who are involved with conceptual design, detailed design or checking of portal frames.

Course delivery:

Delivery will be mainly by lecture. Exercises will be included in the day's programme.