Effective Lengths of Stepped Columns by Elementary Algebra Approach

An elementary algebraic approach is introduced to compute the effective lengths of single and double stepped columns. As long as the inertia moment, axial force and length of each column segment are given, the effective lengths can be computed directly and with excellent accuracy by solving a quadratic or a cubic equation. The proposed approach is suited for programming and spreadsheet computation, and may be used to replace clause 8.3.2, clause 8.3.3 and Table E.0.3 to E.0.6 of the Code GB 50017-2017.