Lecturer: Timothy Sullivan  

Course name: Theory and design of steel structures
Course code: 501063
Degree course: Ingegneria Edile-Architettura
Disciplinary field of science: ICAR/09
University credits: CFU 9
Course website: n.d.

Specific course objectives

The course aims to provides students with the skills and knowledge required for the design and construction of steel structures. The course aims to familiarise students with code approaches, with particular emphasis on the Eurocode requirements. In addition to studying the theory used in the design of steel structures, a number of case study examples of steel structures in different phases of construction are referred to throughout the course.

Course programme

The course begins with a general introduction to steel structures, reviewing the history of the steel industry, the market for steel structures in Europe and the advantages and disadvantages of constructing in steel. The methods of analysis for steel structures are reviewed and then the central part of the course considers the design and analysis for steel elements subject to tension, compression, bending and combined actions. Three lectures are dedicated to the design and analysis of steel connections and joints. The final series of lectures look at composite sections, built-up members, thin-wall sections, vibration of steel structures, fatigue and seismic design considerations. Each lecture is accompanied by a class in which students have the opportunity to apply the material to the analysis and design of a practical case study building.

Course entry requirements

Fundamentals of structural mechanics and analysis.

Course structure and teaching

Lectures (hours/year in lecture theatre): 39
Practical class (hours/year in lecture theatre): 13
Practicals / Workshops (hours/year in lecture theatre): 0

Suggested reading materials

Trahair, Bradford, Nethercoat and Gardner (2008) "The behaviour and design of steel structures to EC3", Taylor & Francis.

Ballio e Bernuzzi. Progettare costruzioni in acciaio. 2004.

Ballio e Mazzolani. Strutture in acciaio. 1987.

NORME EUROPEE: Eurocodice 0, Eurocodice 1, Eurocodice 3 ed Eurocodice 8.

Testing and exams

Students are assessed through: 1. A Mid-Term written exam (prova in itinere). 2. A final written exam that can be taken either in July, September or February (see exam schedule for specific dates).