As published between 1978 and 1983, BS 5400 provides a complete Code for the design and construction of bridges in the main structural materials, steel and concrete. Previously, there was no British Code covering different bridge types and materials comprehensively. BS 153, fnst published in 1923, covered rail and highway loading, together with the design of steel bridges. In concrete, there was no Code, and designers commonly used CP 114 as written for buildings. Authorities such as the Department of Transport and British Railways issued their own particular requirements. A.C.G. Hayward and S.J. Matthews
Dr. A. Fox (Cranfield Institute of Technology): First, I would like to thank the Institution for inviting me this evening. Having now had the privilege of hearing Professor Soane’s very comprehensive presentation I do not want to simply repeat the comments that he has made. I want mainly to endorse many of his observations.
In 1987 both the Part 3 and the Associate-Membership examination reached a milestone in their development that expressed the Institution’s wish to examine its potential members in every way that can be seen to be at once needed and equitable. The Part 3 examination is recognised internationally as demanding a standard of proficiency second to none, and the Associate-Membership examination echoes this at its own appropriate level of competence. The dedication and industry of all the examiners ensure that these standards are never lowered, even though this may lead to the pass-rate dipping for a while, for the profession of structural engineering cannot admit of a lowering of the standards that are so vital in an era when the worldwide demand increasingly seeks innovation. This innovation must never be at the cost of safety and durability, or indeed of economy or elegance of form.
The behaviour of steel columns provided with semi-rigid end restraint typical of that produced by any of the usual forms of beam to column connection is analysed by means of a computer program using the finite element method. The non-linear variation of connection stiffness with rotation is allowed for by an accurate representation of the connection momentr otation (M-Ö) characteristic. Results are presented for one particular combination of variables-termed the ‘basic problem ’-which demonstrates how reduced column lateral deflections lead to enhanced column strengths. A systematic variation of the main parameters has enabled the relative connection stiffness to be identified as the most important factor in determining the extent to which a particular connection type will be capable of increasing the strength of a given column. When cast in the form of effective length factors for use with traditional methods of column design, the results suggest significantly lower values than those customarily recommended at present. S.W. Jones, D.A. Nethercot and P.A. Kirby
President’s diary Following the joint conference of Branch Chairman and Honorary Secretaries in London on 6 November, the President looks forward to joining members at the inaugural meetings of the East Anglian Branch in Norwich on 9 November, the Bedfordshire & Adjoining Counties Branch in Bedford on 10 November, the Thames Valley Branch at Wexham Springs on the evening of the following day, the North Thames Branch in Harlow on 18 November, the South-Eastern Counties Branch in Croydon on 24 November, the Northern Ireland Branch in Belfast on 27 November, and the Peterborough Section on 19 November. Mr White will attend the Republic of Ireland Branch’s annual dinner, in Dublin, on 13 November.
Last year in his Presidential Address, Ted Happold suggested that all Presidents make basically the same speech, being conscious that they represent the entire membership, so that they are expected: -to perceive and explain clearly possible directions for the profession -to produce an extra awareness which not only extends to us but also influences how others see us -to ask questions hopefully of all the membership -to raise our vision K.C. White
Fixing window glass The use of a silicon adhesive in a relatively new method of fixing glass was described by Mr G. V. Francis in our column in July 1986. In this method, silicon adhesive is applied around the perimeter of the glass in lieu of an exterior metal stop, mechanically fixed to the frame. Mr Francis' request for the views of readers resulted in letters (November 1986) from Mr G. E. Bratchell and Mr A. Wenham-Prosser, of whom particularly the latter expressed reservations and mentioned possible dangers and difficulties. Verulam