Equivalent sway imperfections and sway-member imperfection combinations for GMNIA-based steel design

Two types of geometric imperfection typically need to be considered in the analysis and design of structural systems: global frame out-of-plumbness, also referred to as sway imperfections, and member out-of-straightness, also known as bow imperfections; the effect of local cross-section imperfections is generally accounted for through cross-section resistance checks. For modelling convenience, equivalent geometric imperfections are often employed to allow for the combined influence of initial geometric imperfections and residual stresses. For design by geometrically and materially nonlinear analysis with imperfections (GMNIA), amplitudes for equivalent bow imperfections for members are provided in EN 1993–1-14; however, no provisions exist for global sway imperfections. Therefore, equivalent sway imperfections suitable for use in the design of steel structures by GMNIA ϕ0,GMNIA are established herein. Two proposals for calculating ϕ0,GMNIA are presented: (1) ϕ0,GMNIA=ϕ0,geom+α/100, with ϕ0,geom representing the pure geometric sway imperfection, and (2) ϕ0,GMNIA=α/50. In both proposals, the varying degree and influence of residual stresses for different cross-section geometries and axes of buckling is captured by the imperfection factor α, as defined in EN 1993–1-1 for carbon steel and EN 1993–1-4 for stainless steel, respectively. A flow chart that provides guidance on the appropriate selection of frame and member imperfections to avoid duplication of the effects of residual stresses in design by GMNIA is also presented.