ABSTRACT
G.M. Bukasa & M. Dundu University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
ABSTRACT: It is common practice to restrain members in flexure using fly-bracings. In this investigation a series of channels are restrained by a purlin-angle cleat connection. The channels are subjected to a two point loading system in order to simulate a distributed load. Variable in the tests include the unbraced length between the two-point loads and the size of the channels. Failure of the channels occurred by local buckling of the compression zone of the flange and web and lateral torsional buckling of the channels between points of lateral support. The capacity reached by the channels shows that the purlin-cleat restraining system is able to resist lateral torsional buckling of the channels, and that this system can be used without including any fly bracing.
