Elastic buckling load of multi-story frames consisting of Timoshenko members

The objective of this paper is to propose a method for the evaluation of the elastic critical buckling load of columns in frames consisting of members susceptible to non-negligible shear deformations, such as built-up members in steel frames, based on Engesser's approach. To that effect, a stability matrix is proposed and three general stability equations are derived for the cases of unbraced, partially braced and braced frames. Indicative graphic interpretation of the solutions for the stability equations of the braced and unbraced cases is shown. Slope-deflection equations for shear-weak members with semi-rigid connections are also derived and used for the presentation of a complete set of rotational stiffness coefficients, which are then used for the replacement of members converging at the bottom and top ends of the column in question by equivalent springs. All possible rotational and translational boundary conditions at the far end of these members, as well as the eventual presence of axial force, are considered. Five examples are presented, dealing with braced, unbraced and partially braced frames, with rigid and semi-rigid beam to column connections, loaded with concentrated or uniformly distributed loads, in a symmetrical or non-symmetrical pattern. In all cases the proposed approach is in excellent agreement with finite element results.