The present study employs experimentally verified nonlinear finite element analysis techniques to study the ultimate response of single angle beams bent about the major principal axis. The results of the finite element studies show that the current American steel specification predicts nominal moment capacities well below those achieved in the numerical tests. Similarly, the American code does not allow for the design of single angle beams using plastic analysis and design techniques. The work reported herein demonstrates that single angles bent about the major principal axis are indeed suitable for proportioning by plastic design methodologies. Minimum cross-sectional compactness values are given, as is a design equation relating single angle plate slenderness, beam slenderness, yield stress, and rotation capacity. Imperfection sensitivity is also studied through the use of an out-of-plane load, of varying magnitude, imposed at the single angle mid-span shear center. The results show that single angle beams, bent about the major principal axis, enjoy a high degree of imperfection insensitivity.
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