Length of Primary Member using Collapse Prevention Level Calculator

Formula:

\[ L_p = \left( \frac{C_p \times 10^7 \times I_p}{32 \times L_s} \right)^{1/4} \]

Collapse Prevention Level:

Moment of Inertia of Primary Member:

m⁴/m

Length of Secondary Member:

Length of Primary Member (m):

1. What is Length of Primary Member using Collapse Prevention Level?

Definition: This calculator determines the appropriate length of a primary structural member based on collapse prevention criteria, moment of inertia, and secondary member length.

Purpose: It helps structural engineers design buildings to meet specific collapse prevention performance levels.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ L_p = \left( \frac{C_p \times 10^7 \times I_p}{32 \times L_s} \right)^{1/4} \]

Where:

\( L_p \) — Length of primary member (meters)
\( C_p \) — Collapse prevention level
\( I_p \) — Moment of inertia of primary member (m⁴/m)
\( L_s \) — Length of secondary member (meters)

Explanation: The formula calculates the maximum allowable primary member length based on structural performance requirements.

3. Importance of This Calculation

Details: Proper calculation ensures structural integrity and meets building code requirements for collapse prevention.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the collapse prevention level, moment of inertia, and secondary member length. All values must be > 0. Results have ±5% tolerance.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is collapse prevention level?
A: It's a building performance level that prevents structural collapse while allowing significant damage.

Q2: How do I determine moment of inertia?
A: Moment of inertia depends on the cross-section shape and size of the structural member.

Q3: Why is there a ±5% tolerance?
A: The tolerance accounts for material variations and construction tolerances in real-world applications.

Q4: Can this be used for seismic design?
A: Yes, the formula is particularly relevant for seismic performance-based design.

Q5: What units should I use?
A: Use consistent SI units: meters for lengths and m⁴/m for moment of inertia.