The benefits of elastic and nonlinear finite element buckling analysis over a codified approach

The assessment or load rating of existing structures to requirements is often over-conservative and can suggest they can "fail" buckling checks, but analysis with software can often reveal additional capacity. For new structures, where buckling during erection could be critical, finite element analysis permits additional checks to be carried out. For existing and new structures, material and additional bracing/stiffeners can be optimised by carrying out FEA analysis. See how this is done using LUSAS software. As presented at a workshop session at NASCC (incorporating the World Steel Bridge Symposium) 2012 by Terry Cakebread of LUSAS.