A Finite Element Primer for Structural Engineering

It seems possible that BS449 is beginning to displace CP110 as a subject for comment to this column. Our old friend Mr. Hairsine writes : I should like to draw members' attention to a recent amendment to BS449 (Amendment No. 5: AMD 1787) which quietly introduces changes affecting the design of bolted connections and web buckling calculations. Verulam

The paper describes how various factors peculiar to the site together with a desire to impose maximum design and construction standardization led to the use of precast MOT/C&CA prestressed concrete M beams for the decks of a large multi-viaduct interchange at the London end of the M11 motorway. B.P. Pritchard

A definition of structuralstability is given in terms of the sensitivity of structures to variations of the design parameters. The problem of overall stability is then considered, as distinct from localmember stability, and two main modes of overall instability are identified, namely lateral and torsionalinstability. Each of these modes of overall instability are then examined in terms of some of the main factors involved, particularly the variability of live loads, stiffness and geometry, and the influence of geometrical changes during live loading and differential settlements. Statistical methods have been used where appropriate. David J. Dowrick