Structural frames may be categorized depending on the application of loads - plane frame, grid, or space frame. Let's explore these groupings in this post.
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We can arrange structural frames in different orientations depending on the load application on its members.

Frame arrangement

Plane Frame

A plane frame is a structural frame in which the arrangement of members and loads act on a single plane.

  • These forces must work parallel to the plane.
  • The vertical frame experiences axial, shear, and moment stresses.
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Grid

A grid is similar to a plane frame. The difference is how we apply the loads to it.

  • These forces must work orthogonally to the plane.
  • Horizontal grids mainly experience shear, moment, and torsional stresses.

Space Frame

A space frame is a structural frame in which the arrangement of members and loads encompass the three-dimensional space.

  • Unlike plane frames, we don't restrict components and forces to one plane.
  • It experiences axial, shear, moment, and torsional stresses.

Summary

Frames can have different arrangements depending on the load application on its members.
It can be (1) a plane frame, (2) a grid, and (3) a space frame.
A plane frame is a structural frame in which the arrangement of members and loads act on a single plane. The loads work parallel to this plane.
A grid is similar to a plane frame. The difference is that the loads act orthogonal to it.
A space frame is a structural frame in which the arrangement of members and loads encompass the three-dimensional space.

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1

How Do We Classify Frames?

We can arrange the members of a structural frame in any way possible. Two typical configurations are (1) portal and (2) gable frames. Let's explore the difference.

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2

What is a Frame?

The structural frame is a structure composed of members connected by joints. The members experience all sorts of stresses while the joints are rigid but may be semi-rigid or flexible.

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Created On
June 5, 2023
Updated On
February 23, 2024
Contributors
Edgar Christian Dirige
Founder
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