MODULE 6 - ANALYSIS OF STATICALLY INDETERMINATE BEAMS AND FRAMES

Contents:
1. Slope Deflection Method
1.1. Analysis of Continuous beams
1.2 Analysis of Frames without Sidesway
1.3 Analysis of Frames with Sidesway
2. Moment Distribution Method
2.1. Analysis of Continuous beams
2.2 Analysis of Frames without Sidesway
2.3 Analysis of Frames with Sidesway

Discussion:

DISPLACEMENT METHOD OF ANALYSIS: SLOPE-DEFLECTION METHOD

The slope-deflection method was originally developed by Heinrich Manderla and Otto Mohr for
the purpose of studying secondary stresses in trusses. Later, in 1915, George A. Maney developed
a refined version of this technique and applied it to the analysis of indeterminate beams and
framed structures.

General Case. The slope-deflection method is so named since it relates the unknown slopes and
deflections to the applied load on a structure. In order to develop the general form of the slope-
deflection equations, consider the typical span AB of a continuous beam as shown in Fig. 11–2,
which is subjected to the arbitrary loading and has a constant EI. Relate the beam’s internal end
moments MAB and MBA in terms of its three degrees of freedom, namely, its angular
displacements θA and θB and linear displacement Δ which could be caused by a relative
settlement between the supports. Moments and angular displacements will be considered
positive when they act clockwise on the span, as shown in Fig. 3-1. Furthermore, the linear
displacement Δ is considered positive as shown, since this displacement causes the cord of the
span and the span’s cord angle ψ to rotate clockwise.

Fig. 3-1.

The slope-deflection equations can be obtained by using the principle of superposition by

considering separately the moments developed at each support due to each of the
displacements, and then the loads, θ A, θB, and Δ, and then the loads.
Angular Displacement at A, θA. Consider node A of the member shown in Fig. 3–2a to rotate θA
while its far-end node B is held fixed. To determine the moment needed to cause this
displacement, the conjugate-beam method will be used. For this case the conjugate beam is
shown in Fig. 3-2b.
 Fig. 3-2.

Notice that the end shear at A’ acts downward on the beam, since θ A is clockwise. The deflection
of the “real beam” in Fig. 3-2a is to be zero at A and B, and therefore the corresponding sum of
the moments at each end A’ and B’ of the conjugate beam must also be zero. This yields

from which we obtain the following load-displacement relationships.

4𝐸𝐼
𝑀𝐴𝐵 = 𝜃 𝑒𝑞𝑛. 1
𝐿 𝐴
2𝐸𝐼
𝑀𝐵𝐴 = 𝜃 𝑒𝑞𝑛. 2
𝐿 𝐴
Angular Displacement at B, θB . In a similar manner, if end B of the beam rotates to its final
position θB, while end A is held fixed, Fig. 3–4, we can relate the applied moment MBA to the
angular displacement θB and the reaction moment MAB at the wall.

Fig. 3-4

The results are

4𝐸𝐼
𝑀𝐵𝐴 = 𝜃 𝑒𝑞𝑛. 3
𝐿 𝐵
2𝐸𝐼
𝑀𝐴𝐵 = 𝜃 𝑒𝑞𝑛. 4
𝐿 𝐵
Relative Linear Displacement, Δ . If the far node B of the member is displaced relative to A, so
that the cord of the member rotates clockwise (positive displacement) and yet both ends do not
rotate, then equal but opposite moment and shear reactions are developed in the member, Fig.
3–5a.

Fig. 3-5
As before, the moment M can be related to the displacement using the conjugate-beam method.
In this case, the conjugate beam, Fig. 3–5b, is free at both ends, since the real beam (member) is
fixed supported. However, due to the displacement of the real beam at B, the moment at the
end B’ of the conjugate beam must have a magnitude of Δ as indicated.* Summing moments
about B’, we have

−6𝐸𝐼
𝑀𝐴𝐵 = 𝑀𝐵𝐴 = ∆ 𝑒𝑞𝑛. 5
𝐿2
By our sign convention, this induced moment is negative since for equilibrium it acts
counterclockwise on the member.

Fixed-End Moments. The linear or angular displacements of the nodes are caused by loadings
acting on the span of the member, not by moments acting at its nodes. In order to develop the
slope-deflection equations, we must transform these span loadings into equivalent moments
acting at the nodes and then use the load-displacement relationships just derived. This is done
simply by finding the reaction moment that each load develops at the nodes. For example,
consider the fixed-supported member shown in Fig. 11–6a, which is subjected to a concentrated
load P at its center. The conjugate beam for this case is shown in Fig. 11–6b.

Since we require the slope at each end to be zero,

This moment is called a fixed-end moment (FEM). Note that according to our sign convention, it
is negative at node A (counterclockwise) and positive at node B (clockwise).
Table 11-1. Fixed-End Moments (Restrained Beams)

Table 11-2. Fixed-End Moments (Propped Beams)

Slope-Deflection Equation. If the end moments due to each displacement (Eqs. 3–1 through 3–5)
and the loading (Eq. 3–6) are added together, the resultant moments at the ends can be written
as
Since these two equations are similar, the result can be expressed as a single equation. Referring
to one end of the span as the near end (N) and the other end as the far end (F), and letting the
𝐼
member stiffness be represented as 𝑘 = 𝐿 and the span’s cord rotation as ψ (psi) = Δ/L, we can
write

where

MN = internal moment in the near end of the span; this moment is positive clockwise
when acting on the span.
𝐼
E, k = modulus of elasticity of material and span stiffness 𝑘 =
𝐿
θN, θF = near- and and far-end slopes or angular displacements of the span at the
supports; the angles are measured in radians and are positive clockwise.
𝛥
ψ = span rotation of its cord due to a linear displacement, that is, = ; this angle is
𝐿
measured in radians and is positive clockwise.
(FEM)N = fixed-end moment at the near-end support; the moment is positive clockwise
when acting on the span; refer to Table 11-1.

Eq. 11–8 is both a compatibility and load displacement relationship found by considering only the
effects of bending and neglecting axial and shear deformations. It is referred to as the general
slope-deflection equation. When used for the solution of problems, this equation is applied twice
for each member span (AB); that is, application is from A to B and from B to A for span AB in Fig.
11–2.

Pin-Supported End Span. Occasionally an end span of a beam or frame is supported by a pin or
roller at its far end, Fig. 11–8a.

When this occurs, the moment at the roller or pin must be zero; and provided the angular
displacement at this support does not have to be determined, we can modify the general slope-
deflection equation so that it has to be applied only once to the span rather than twice. To do
this we will apply Eq. 11–8 or Eqs. 11–7 to each end of the beam in Fig. 11–8.This results in the
following two equations:

Here the (FEM)F is equal to zero since the far end is pinned, Fig. 11–8b. Furthermore, the (FEM)N
can be obtained, for example, using the Table 11-2. Multiplying the first equation by 2 and
subtracting the second equation from it eliminates the unknown θ F and yields
The modified slope-deflection equations for member AB with a hinge at end B:

The modified slope-deflection equations for member AB with a hinge at end A:

EXAMPLE 1.
A. Solve for the final end moments in the continuous beam using slope deflection method.
B. Calculate the reactions at the supports. EI - constant
10 kN 8 kN 6 kN/m

2m 3m 1m C
A B

6m 4m
Solution :
10 kN 8 kN 6 kN/m

MA 2m 3m 1m C
A B

RA 6m RB 4m RC
A. Solving for the final end moments:
a. Fixed End Moments , FEM:

AB:
10 kN 8 kN

2m 3m 1m FEMBA
FEMAB
A B
6m

𝑃𝑎𝑏2 10(2)42 8(5)12

𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐴𝐵 = = + = 10 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
𝐿2 62 62
𝑃𝑏𝑎2 10(4)22 8(1)52
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐴 = 2 = + = 10 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
𝐿 62 62

BC: 6 kN/m

FEMBC FEMCB
B C
4m
2
𝑤𝐿 6(4)2
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐶 = = = 4.8 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
20 20
𝑤𝐿2 6(4)2
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐶𝐵 = = = 3.2 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
30 30
b. Slope deflection equations:
Using General Slope Deflection Method:

2𝐸𝐼
AB: 𝑀𝐴𝐵 = [2𝜃𝐴 + 𝜃𝐵 − 3(0)] − 10
6
2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐴 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵
𝑀𝐴𝐵 = + − 10 (1)
3 3
2𝐸𝐼
𝑀𝐵𝐴 = [2𝜃𝐵 + 𝜃𝐴 − 3(0)] + 10
6
2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐴
𝑀𝐵𝐴 = + + 10 (2)
3 3
2𝐸𝐼
BC: 𝑀𝐵𝐶 = [2𝜃𝐵 + 𝜃𝐶 − 3(0)] − 4.8
4
𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶
𝑀𝐵𝐶 = 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 + − 4.8 (3)
2
2𝐸𝐼
𝑀𝐶𝐵 = [2𝜃𝐶 + 𝜃𝐵 − 3(0)] + 3.2
4
𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵
𝑀𝐶𝐵 = 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 + 2
+ 3.2 (4)

c. Apply joint conditions and equilibrium equations:

Joint A:
𝜃𝐴 = 0
𝐸𝐼𝜃
𝑀𝐴𝐵 = 3 𝐵 − 10 (5)
2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵
𝑀𝐵𝐴 = + 10 (6)
3
Joint B:
∑ 𝑀𝐵 = 0 ] ↶ +: or 𝑀𝐵 = 0 V BL
𝑀𝐵𝐴 + 𝑀𝐵𝐶 = 0 B
Substitute (6) and (3): MBA MBC
2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 𝐸𝐼𝜃 V BR
+ 10 + 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 + 2 𝐶 − 4.8 = 0
3 RB
5𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶
+ = −5.2 (7)
3 2
Joint C:
∑ 𝑀𝐶 = 0 ] ↶ +: or 𝑀𝐶 = 0
V BL
𝑀𝐶𝐵 = 0 C
𝐸𝐼𝜃 MCB
𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 + 2 𝐵 + 3.2 = 0
𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 RC
+ 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 = −3.2 (8)
2

Equate (7) and (8):

216 216
𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 = − 85 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚2 𝑜𝑟 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 = 85 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚2 ↺
165 165
𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 = − 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚2 𝑜𝑟 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 = 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚2 ↺
85 85

d. Member end moments:

216 164
Substitute 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 = − 85 and 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 = − in eqns. (5), (6), (3) and (4):
85
922 922
𝑴𝑨𝑩 = − 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 or 𝑴𝑨𝑩 = 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↺
85 85
706
𝑴𝑩𝑨 = 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↻
85
706 706
𝑴𝑩𝑪 = − 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 or 𝑴𝑩𝑪 = 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↺
85 85
𝑴𝑪𝑩 = 𝟎
B. Solving for the reactions at the supports:
922
𝑴𝑨 = 𝑴𝑨𝑩 = 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↺
85

Consider AB as FBD:
10 kN 8 kN

M A = 922 kN-m 2m 3m 1m
85 MBA = 706 kN-m
A B 85

RA 6m RB L
∑ 𝑀𝐵 = 0 ] ↷ +:
922 706
𝑅𝐴 (6) − 85 − 10(4) − 8(1) + 85 = 0
𝟕𝟏𝟔
𝑹𝑨 = 𝒌𝑵 ↑
𝟖𝟓

Consider BC as FBD:
6 kN/m

MBC = 706 kN-m C

85 B

RB 4m RC
R
∑ 𝑀𝐵 = 0 ] ↷ +:
1 1 706
−𝑅𝐶 (4) + (6)4 ( ∙ 4) − =0
2 3 85
𝟑𝟐𝟕
𝑹𝑪 = 𝟏𝟕𝟎 𝒌𝑵 ↑

Consider whole structure as FBD:

∑ 𝐹𝑉 = 0 ] ↑ +:
716 327 1
𝑅𝐵 + + − 10 − 8 − (6)4 = 0
85 170 2
𝟑𝟑𝟒𝟏
𝑹𝑩 = 𝒌𝑵 ↑
𝟏𝟕𝟎

Alternative solution for the end moments:

a. Fixed End Moments , FEM:
AB:
10 kN 8 kN

2m 3m 1m FEMBA
FEMAB
A B
6m

𝑃𝑎𝑏2 10(2)42 8(5)12

𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐴𝐵 = 2 = + = 10 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
𝐿 62 62
2 2 2
𝑃𝑏𝑎 10(4)2 8(1)5
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐴 = 2 = + = 10 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
𝐿 62 62
 BC: 6 kN/m

FEMBC FEMCB
B C
4m
2
𝑤𝐿 6(4)2
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐶 = = = 4.8 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
20 20
𝑤𝐿2 6(4)2
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐶𝐵 = = = 3.2 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
30 30

b. Slope deflection equations:

2𝐸𝐼
AB: 𝑀𝐴𝐵 = [2𝜃𝐴 + 𝜃𝐵 − 3(0)] − 10
6
2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐴 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵
𝑀𝐴𝐵 = 3
+ 3
− 10 (1)
2𝐸𝐼
𝑀𝐵𝐴 = [2𝜃𝐵 + 𝜃𝐴 − 3(0)] + 10
6
2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 𝐸𝐼𝜃
𝑀𝐵𝐴 = 3 + 3 𝐴 + 10 (2)
BC: Using modified slope deflection equations:
𝑀𝐶𝐵 = 0
3𝐸𝐼 ∆ 𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐶𝐵
𝑀𝐵𝐶 = [𝜃𝐵 − ] + [𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐶 − ]
𝐿 𝐿 2

3𝐸𝐼 3.2
𝑀𝐵𝐶 = [𝜃𝐵 − 0] + [−4.8 − ]
4 2
3𝐸𝐼𝜃
𝑀𝐵𝐶 = 4 𝐵 − 6.4 (3)

c. Apply joint conditions and equilibrium equations:

Joint A:
𝜃𝐴 = 0
𝐸𝐼𝜃
𝑀𝐴𝐵 = 3 𝐵 − 10 (4)
2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵
𝑀𝐵𝐴 = + 10 (5)
3
Joint B:
∑ 𝑀𝐵 = 0 ] ↶ +: or 𝑀𝐵 = 0 V BL
𝑀𝐵𝐴 + 𝑀𝐵𝐶 = 0 B
Substitute (5) and (3): MBA MBC
2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 3𝐸𝐼𝜃 V BR
+ 10 + 4 𝐵 − 6.4 = 0
3 RB
216 216
𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 = − 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚2 𝑜𝑟 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 = 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚2 ↺
85 85

d. Member end moments:

216
Substitute 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 = − 85 in eqns. (4), (5), and (3):
922 922
𝑴𝑨𝑩 = − 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 or 𝑴𝑨𝑩 = 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↺
85 85
706
𝑴𝑩𝑨 = 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↻
85
706 706
𝑴𝑩𝑪 = − 85
𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 or 𝑴𝑩𝑪 = 85
𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↺
𝑴𝑪𝑩 = 𝟎
EXAMPLE 2:
Determine the member end moments using slope deflection method. EI - constant

8 kN 9 kN/m
5 kN/m

1m 1m 1m
A D
B C

4m 3m 4m
SOLUTION:
8 kN 9 kN/m
5 kN/m

1m 1m 1m
A D
B C

4m 3m 4m
RA RB RC RD
a. Fixed End Moments , FEM:
AB:
8 kN
5 kN/m
FEMAB 1m 1m FEM BA
A B
4m

𝑃𝑎𝑏2 5𝑤𝐿2 8(1)32 5(5)42 79

𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐴𝐵 = 2 + = + = 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
𝐿 192 42 192 12
𝑃𝑏𝑎2 11𝑤𝐿2 8(3)12 11(5)42 73
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐴 = 2 + = + = 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
𝐿 192 42 192 12
BC:
5 kN/m

FEMBC FEMCB
B C
3m
2
𝑤𝐿 5(3)2
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐶 = = = 3.75 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
12 12
𝑤𝐿2 5(3)2
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐶𝐵 = = = 3.75 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
12 12
CD: P = ydx
9 kN/m
9 kN/m
y
1m FEM DC
FEMCD 1m FEM DC FEMCD C
dx
D
C D a b
4-x x
4m 4m

𝑦 9
= ; 𝑦 = 3𝑥
𝑥 3
3
𝑃𝑎𝑏2 3𝑥𝑑𝑥(4 − 𝑥)𝑥 2
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐶𝐷 = 2 =∫ = 6.075 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
𝐿 0 42

3
𝑃𝑏𝑎2 3𝑥𝑑𝑥(𝑥)(4 − 𝑥)2
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐷𝐶 = = ∫ = 5.7375 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
𝐿2 0 42
b. Slope deflection equations:
AB: 𝑀𝐴𝐵 = 0
3𝐸𝐼 ∆ 𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐴𝐵
𝑀𝐵𝐴 = [𝜃𝐵 − ] + [𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐴 − ]
𝐿 𝐿 2
79
3𝐸𝐼 73 − 12
𝑀𝐵𝐴 = [𝜃𝐵 − 0] + [ − ( )]
4 12 2
3𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 75
𝑀𝐵𝐴 = + (1)
4 8

2𝐸𝐼
BC: 𝑀𝐵𝐶 = [2𝜃𝐵 + 𝜃𝐶 − 3(0)] − 3.75
3
4𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶
𝑀𝐵𝐶 = + − 3.75 (2)
3 3
2𝐸𝐼
𝑀𝐶𝐵 = [2𝜃𝐶 + 𝜃𝐵 − 3(0)] + 3.75
3
4𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵
𝑀𝐶𝐵 = + + 3.75 (3)
3 3

CD: 𝑀𝐷𝐶 = 0
3𝐸𝐼 ∆ 𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐷𝐶
𝑀𝐶𝐷 = [𝜃𝐶 − ] + [𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐶𝐷 − ]
𝐿 𝐿 2
3𝐸𝐼 5.7375
𝑀𝐶𝐷 = [𝜃𝐶 − 0] + [−6.075 − ]
4 2
3𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 1431
𝑀𝐶𝐷 = − (4)
4 160

c. Apply joint conditions and equilibrium equations:

Joint B:
∑ 𝑀𝐵 = 0 ] ↶ +: or 𝑀𝐵 = 0
V BL
𝑀𝐵𝐴 + 𝑀𝐵𝐶 = 0 B
MBA MBC
Substitute (1) and (2):
3𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 75 4𝐸𝐼𝜃 2𝐸𝐼𝜃 V BR
+ 8 + 3 𝐵 + 3 𝐶 − 3.75 = 0 RB
4
25𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶
+ = −5.625 (5)
12 3
Joint C:
∑ 𝑀𝐶 = 0 ] ↶ +: or 𝑀𝐶 = 0
𝑀𝐶𝐵 + 𝑀𝐶𝐷 = 0
Substitute (3) and (4):
4𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 2𝐸𝐼𝜃 3𝐸𝐼𝜃 1431
3
+ 3 𝐵 + 3.75 + 4 𝐶 − 160 = 0
2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 25𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 831
+ = 160 (6)
3 12

Equate (5) and (6):

𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 = −3.89679 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚2 𝑜𝑟 3.89679 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚2 ↺
𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 = 3.73997 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚2 ↻

d. Member end moments:

Substitute 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 = −3.89679 and 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 = 3.73997 in eqns. (1), (2), (3) and (4):
𝑴𝑩𝑨 = 𝟔. 𝟒𝟓𝟐 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↻
𝑴𝑩𝑪 = −𝟔. 𝟒𝟓𝟐 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 𝒐𝒓 𝑴𝑩𝑪 = 𝟔. 𝟒𝟓𝟐 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↺
𝑴𝑪𝑩 = 𝟔. 𝟏𝟑𝟗 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↻
𝑴𝑪𝑫 = −𝟔. 𝟏𝟑𝟗 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 𝒐𝒓 𝑴𝑪𝑫 = 𝟔. 𝟏𝟑𝟗 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↺
𝑴𝑨𝑩 = 𝟎
𝑴𝑪𝑩 = 𝟎
EXAMPLE 3:
Determine the end moments at the supports using slope deflection method for the loadings
shown and a settlement of 8mm at support B.

SOLUTION:
100 kN
75 kN/m
37.5 kN/m
MA MC
A B C
3m 3m 4m
RA RB RC
100 kN
75 kN/m
37.5 kN/m
MA MC
A B 8mm C
B’
3m 3m 4m
RA RC
RB

a. Fixed End Moments , FEM:

100 kN
AB:
37.5 kN/m

FEMAB FEM BA
A B
3m 3m
𝑃𝐿 𝑤𝐿2 100(6) 37.5(6)2
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐴𝐵 = + = + = 187.5 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
8 12 8 12
2 2
𝑃𝐿 𝑤𝐿 100(6) 37.5(6)
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐴 = + = + = 187.5 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
8 12 8 12

BC:
75 kN/m

FEMBC FEMCB
B C
4m
2
𝑤𝐿 75(4)2
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐶 = = = 100 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
12 12
𝑤𝐿2 75(4)2
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐶𝐵 = = = 100 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
12 12
b. Rotational displacements, 𝜓:
A 6m B 4m C
8mm

B’
Δ
𝜓= 𝐿
Δ 0.008 1
AB: 𝜓𝐴𝐵 = 𝜓𝐵𝐴 = = = 750 𝑟𝑎𝑑 ↻
𝐿 6
Δ 0.008 1
BC: 𝜓𝐵𝐶 = 𝜓𝐶𝐵 = = = 500 𝑟𝑎𝑑 ↺
𝐿 4

b. Slope deflection equations:

2𝐸𝐼 1
AB: 𝑀𝐴𝐵 = [2𝜃𝐴 + 𝜃𝐵 − 3( )] − 187.5
6 750
2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐴 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 𝐸𝐼
𝑀𝐴𝐵 = + − 750 − 187.5 (1)
3 3
2𝐸𝐼 1
𝑀𝐵𝐴 = [2𝜃𝐵 + 𝜃𝐴 − 3( )] + 187.5
6 750
2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐴 𝐸𝐼
𝑀𝐵𝐴 = + − 750 + 187.5 (2)
3 3

2𝐸𝐼 −1
BC: 𝑀𝐵𝐶 = [2𝜃𝐵 + 𝜃𝐶 − 3( )] − 100
4 500
𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 3𝐸𝐼
𝑀𝐵𝐶 = 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 + + 1000 − 100 (3)
2
2𝐸𝐼 −1
𝑀𝐶𝐵 = [2𝜃𝐶 + 𝜃𝐵 − 3( )] + 100
4 500
𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 3𝐸𝐼
𝑀𝐶𝐵 = 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 + + 1000 + 100 (4)
2

c. Apply joint conditions and equilibrium equations:

Joint A:
𝜃𝐴 = 0
𝐸𝐼𝜃 𝐸𝐼
𝑀𝐴𝐵 = 3 𝐵 − 750 − 187.5 (5)
2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 𝐸𝐼
𝑀𝐵𝐴 = − 750 + 187.5 (6)
3
Joint C:
𝜃𝐶 = 0
3𝐸𝐼
𝑀𝐵𝐶 = 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 + 1000 − 100 (7)
𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 3𝐸𝐼
𝑀𝐶𝐵 = + + 100 (8)
2 1000
Joint B:
∑ 𝑀𝐵 = 0 ] ↶ +: or 𝑀𝐵 = 0 V BL
𝑀𝐵𝐴 + 𝑀𝐵𝐶 = 0 B
MBA MBC
Substitute (6) and (7):
2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 𝐸𝐼 3𝐸𝐼 V BR
− 750 + 187.5 + 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 + 1000 − 100 = 0 RB
3
5𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 𝐸𝐼
+ 600 = −87.5
3

𝐸𝐼 = 200𝑥109 (2.13𝑥10−4 ) = 426𝑥105 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚2

𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 = −42,652.5 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚2 𝑜𝑟 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 = 42,652.5 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚2 ↺

d. Member end moments:

Substitute 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 = −42,652.5 in eqns. (5), (6), (7) and (8):
𝑴𝑨𝑩 = − 𝟕𝟏, 𝟐𝟎𝟓 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 or 𝑴𝑨𝑩 = 𝟕𝟏, 𝟐𝟎𝟓 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↺
𝑴𝑩𝑨 = −𝟖𝟓, 𝟎𝟒𝟕. 𝟓 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 𝒐𝒓 𝑴𝑩𝑨 = 𝟖𝟓, 𝟎𝟒𝟕. 𝟓 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↺
𝑴𝑩𝑪 = 𝟖𝟓, 𝟎𝟒𝟕. 𝟓 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↻
𝑴𝑪𝑩 = 𝟏𝟎𝟔, 𝟓𝟕𝟑. 𝟕𝟓 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↻
ANALYSIS OF STATICALLY INDETERMINATE FRAMES

Rigid Frame – a structure composed of horizontal and vertical member whose joints are rigid ;
i.e the angles between members remain unchanged before and application of the loads.

ANALYSIS OF FRAMES WITHOUT SIDESWAY

The lateral displacements of building frames are commonly referred to as sidesways and the
frames whose joints undergo translations are termed frames with sidesway, whereas frames
without joint translations are called frames without sidesway.

A frame will not sidesway, or be displaced to the left or right, provided it is properly restrained.
Examples are shown in Fig. 11–14. Also, no sidesway will occur in an unrestrained frame provided
it is symmetric with respect to both loading and geometry, as shown in Fig. 11–15. For both cases
the term ψ in the slope-deflection equations is equal to zero, since bending does not cause the
joints to have a linear displacement.

ANALYSIS OF FRAMES WITH SIDESWAY

A frame will sidesway, or be displaced to the side, when it or the

loading acting on it is nonsymmetric; or its joints are not
restrained against translation. To illustrate this effect, consider
the frame shown in Fig. 11–18. Here the loading P causes
unequal moments MBC and MCB at the joints B and C,
respectively. MBC tends to displace joint B to the right, where MCB
as tends to displace joint C to the left. Since MBC is larger than
MCB the net result is a sidesway Δ of both joints B and C to the
right, as shown in the figure.
When applying the slope-deflection equation to each column of
this frame, we must therefore consider the column rotation
 ∆
𝜓 (since 𝜓 = 𝐿) as unknown in the equation. As a result an extra equilibrium equation must be
included for the solution.

For an arbitrary plane frame subjected to a general coplanar loading, the number of independent
joint translations – which are commonly referred as the sidesway degrees of freedom, ss – can
be expressed as
𝑠𝑠 = 2𝑗 − [2(𝑓 + ℎ) + 𝑟 + 𝑚]

where: j = number of joints

f = number of fixed supports
h = number of hinged supports
r =number of roller supports
m = number of (inextensible) member

It is important to realize that a frame may contain joints that are free to translate, but it may still
be considered for analytical purposes as one without sidesway under a particular loading
condition if no joint translations occur when the frame is subjected to that loading condition.

Problems:
Determine if the following rigid frames are frames with sidesway or without sidesway. Indicate
the sidesway degrees of freedom.
1. 2. 3.

4. 5. 6.
P P
2m 2m

Solution:
1. 𝑠𝑠 = 2𝑗 − [2(𝑓 + ℎ) + 𝑟 + 𝑚] 3. 𝑠𝑠 = 2𝑗 − [2(𝑓 + ℎ) + 𝑟 + 𝑚]
j=5 j = 17
f=2 f=5
h=1 h=0
r=0 r=0
m=4 m = 21
𝑠𝑠 = 2(5) − [2(2 + 1) + 0 + 4] 𝑠𝑠 = 2(17) − [2(5 + 0) + 0 + 21]
𝑠𝑠 = 0 ∴ 𝑛𝑜 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑠𝑤𝑎𝑦 𝑠𝑠 = 3𝑜 ∴ 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑠𝑤𝑎𝑦

2. 𝑠𝑠 = 2𝑗 − [2(𝑓 + ℎ) + 𝑟 + 𝑚] 4. 𝑠𝑠 = 2𝑗 − [2(𝑓 + ℎ) + 𝑟 + 𝑚]
j=7 j=4
f=3 f=2
h=0 h=0
r=1 r=0
m=6 m=3
𝑠𝑠 = 2(7) − [2(3 + 0) + 1 + 6] 𝑠𝑠 = 2(4) − [2(2 + 0) + 0 + 3]
𝑠𝑠 = 1𝑜 ∴ 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑠𝑤𝑎𝑦 𝑠𝑠 = 1𝑜 ∴ 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑠𝑤𝑎𝑦
5. 𝑛𝑜 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑠𝑤𝑎𝑦 − h=0
𝑠𝑦𝑚𝑚𝑒𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝑙𝑜𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑔𝑒𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑡𝑟𝑦 r=0
m=3
6. 𝑠𝑠 = 2𝑗 − [2(𝑓 + ℎ) + 𝑟 + 𝑚] 𝑠𝑠 = 2(4) − [2(2 + 0) + 0 + 3]
j=4 𝑠𝑠 = 1𝑜 ∴ 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑠𝑤𝑎𝑦
f=2

Problem 1:
Calculate the member end moments in the rigid frame shown using slope deflection method. EI
- constant
48 kN
18 kN/m
3m 2m
A
B 6m C

4m

Solution:
48 kN
18 kN/m
3m 2m
A
B 6m C

4m

𝑠𝑠 = 2𝑗 − [2(𝑓 + ℎ) + 𝑟 + 𝑚]
𝑠𝑠 = 2(4) − [2(2 + 1) + 0 + 3]
𝑠𝑠 = −1 ∴ 𝑛𝑜 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑠𝑤𝑎𝑦
a. Fixed End Moments , FEM:
AB: 48 kN

3m 2m FEM
FEMAB BA
A B
5m

𝑃𝑎𝑏2 48(3)22
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐴𝐵 = 2 = = 23.04 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
𝐿 52
𝑃𝑏𝑎2 48(2)32
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐴 = 2 = = 34.56 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
𝐿 52
BC:
18 kN/m

FEMBC FEMCB
B C
6m
2 2
𝑤𝐿 18(6)
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐶 = = = 54 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
12 12
𝑤𝐿2 18(6)2
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐶𝐵 = = = 54 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
12 12

BD: 𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐷 = 0 𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐷𝐵 = 0

b. Slope deflection equations:

AB: 𝑀𝐴𝐵 = 0
3𝐸𝐼 −23.04
𝑀𝐵𝐴 = [𝜃𝐵 − 0] + [34.56 − ( )]
5 2
3𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵
𝑀𝐵𝐴 = + 46.08 (1)
5
 2𝐸𝐼
BC: 𝑀𝐵𝐶 = [2𝜃𝐵 + 𝜃𝐶 − 3(0)] − 54
6
2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶
𝑀𝐵𝐶 = + − 54 (2)
3 3
2𝐸𝐼
𝑀𝐶𝐵 = [2𝜃𝐶 + 𝜃𝐵 − 3(0)] + 54
6
2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵
𝑀𝐶𝐵 = + + 54 (3)
3 3

2𝐸𝐼
BD: 𝑀𝐵𝐷 = [2𝜃𝐵 + 𝜃𝐷 − 3(0)] + 0
4
𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐷
𝑀𝐵𝐷 = 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 + (4)
2
2𝐸𝐼
𝑀𝐷𝐵 = [2𝜃𝐷 + 𝜃𝐵 − 3(0)] + 0
4
𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵
𝑀𝐷𝐵 = 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐷 + (5)
2

c. Apply joint conditions and equilibrium equations:

Joint C:
𝜃𝐶 = 0
2𝐸𝐼𝜃
𝑀𝐵𝐶 = 3 𝐵 − 54 (6)
𝐸𝐼𝜃
𝑀𝐶𝐵 = 3 𝐵 + 54 (7)
Joint D:
𝜃𝐷 = 0
𝑀𝐵𝐷 = 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 (8)
𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵
𝑀𝐷𝐵 = (9)
2
Joint B:
∑ 𝑀𝐵 = 0 ] ↶ +: or 𝑀𝐵 = 0
𝑀𝐵𝐴 + 𝑀𝐵𝐶 + 𝑀𝐵𝐷 = 0
Substitute (1), (6) and (8):
3𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 2𝐸𝐼𝜃
+ 46.08 + 3 𝐵 − 54 + 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 = 0
5
297
𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 = 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚2 ↻
85

d. Member end moments:

297
Substitute 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 = 85 in eqns. (1), (6), (7), (8) and (9):
𝟖𝟏𝟗
𝑴𝑩𝑨 = 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↻
𝟏𝟕
𝟒𝟑𝟗𝟐 𝟒𝟑𝟗𝟐
𝑴𝑩𝑪 = − 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 or 𝑴𝑩𝑪 = 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↺
𝟖𝟓 𝟖𝟓
𝟒𝟔𝟖𝟗
𝑴𝑪𝑩 = 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↻
𝟖𝟓
𝟐𝟗𝟕
𝑴𝑩𝑫 = 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↻
𝟖𝟓
𝟐𝟗𝟕
𝑴𝑫𝑩 = 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↻
𝟏𝟕𝟎
𝑴𝑨𝑩 = 𝟎
Problem 2:
Calculate the member end moments and reactions for the rigid frame shown using slope
deflection method. EI - constant
49 kN

B 3m 4m
C

5m
6 kN/m

7m
D

A
Solution:
𝑠𝑠 = 2𝑗 − [2(𝑓 + ℎ) + 𝑟 + 𝑚]
𝑠𝑠 = 2(4) − [2(2 + 0) + 0 + 3]
𝑠𝑠 = 1𝑜 ∴ 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑠𝑤𝑎𝑦

a. Fixed End Moments , FEM:

AB:
FEMBA

B 𝑤𝐿2 6(7)2
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐴𝐵 = = = 24.5 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
12 12
𝑤𝐿2 6(7)2
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐴 = = = 24.5 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
12 12
6 kN/m

7m

FEM AB

BC: 49 kN

3m 4m
FEMBC FEM
C CB
B
7m

𝑃𝑎𝑏2 49(3)42
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐶 = = = 48 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
𝐿2 72
𝑃𝑏𝑎2 49(4)32
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐶𝐵 = 2 = = 36 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
𝐿 72

CD: 𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐶𝐷 = 0 𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐷𝐶 = 0

b. Slope deflection equations:

2𝐸𝐼 ∆
AB: 𝑀𝐴𝐵 = [2𝜃𝐴 + 𝜃𝐵 − 3( )] − 24.5
7 7
4𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐴 2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 6𝐸𝐼∆
𝑀𝐴𝐵 = + − − 24.5 (1)
7 7 49
2𝐸𝐼 ∆
𝑀𝐵𝐴 = [2𝜃𝐵 + 𝜃𝐴 − 3( )] + 24.5
7 7
4𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐴 6𝐸𝐼∆
𝑀𝐵𝐴 = + − + 24.5 (2)
7 7 49
 2𝐸𝐼
BC: 𝑀𝐵𝐶 = [2𝜃𝐵 + 𝜃𝐶 − 3(0)] − 48
7
4𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶
𝑀𝐵𝐶 = + − 48 (3)
7 7
2𝐸𝐼
𝑀𝐶𝐵 = [2𝜃𝐶 + 𝜃𝐵 − 3(0)] + 36
7
4𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵
𝑀𝐶𝐵 = + + 36 (4)
7 7

2𝐸𝐼 ∆
CD: 𝑀𝐶𝐷 = [2𝜃𝐶 + 𝜃𝐷 − 3( )] + 0
5 5
4𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐷 6𝐸𝐼∆
𝑀𝐶𝐷 = + − (5)
5 5 25
2𝐸𝐼 ∆
𝑀𝐷𝐶 = [2𝜃𝐷 + 𝜃𝐶 − 3( )] + 0
5 5
4𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐷 2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 6𝐸𝐼∆
𝑀𝐷𝐶 = + − (6)
5 5 25

c. Apply joint conditions and equilibrium equations:

Joint A:
𝜃𝐴 = 0
2𝐸𝐼𝜃 6𝐸𝐼∆
𝑀𝐴𝐵 = 7 𝐵 − 49 − 24.5 (7)
4𝐸𝐼𝜃 6𝐸𝐼∆
𝑀𝐵𝐴 = 7 𝐵 − 49 + 24.5 (8)
Joint D:
𝜃𝐷 = 0
4𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 6𝐸𝐼∆
𝑀𝐶𝐷 = − (9)
5 25
2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 6𝐸𝐼∆
𝑀𝐷𝐶 = − (10)
5 25
Joint B:
∑ 𝑀𝐵 = 0 ] ↶ +: or 𝑀𝐵 = 0 V BL
𝑀𝐵𝐴 + 𝑀𝐵𝐶 = 0 B
MBA MBC
Substitute (8) and (3):
4𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 6𝐸𝐼∆ 4𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 2𝐸𝐼𝜃
V BR
− 49 + 24.5 + + 7 𝐶 − 48 = 0 RB
7 7
𝟖𝑬𝑰𝜽𝑩 𝟐𝑬𝑰𝜽𝑪 𝟔𝑬𝑰∆
𝟕
+ 𝟕
− 𝟒𝟗
= 𝟐𝟑. 𝟓 (11)

Joint C:
∑ 𝑀𝐶 = 0 ] ↶ +: or 𝑀𝐶 = 0
𝑀𝐶𝐵 + 𝑀𝐶𝐷 = 0
Substitute (4) and (9):
4𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 4𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 6𝐸𝐼∆
+ + 36 + − =0
7 7 5 25
𝟐𝑬𝑰𝜽𝑩 𝟒𝟖𝑬𝑰𝜽𝑪 𝟔𝑬𝑰∆
+ − = −𝟑𝟔 (12)
𝟕 𝟑𝟓 𝟐𝟓

Consider ABCD, AB and CD as FBDs:

ABCD:
49 kN

B 3m 4m
C ∑ 𝐹𝐻 = 0 → +:
𝐴𝐻 + 𝐷𝐻 + 6(7) = 0
𝐴𝐻 + 𝐷𝐻 = −42 (13)
5m
6 kN/m

7m
D
DH
MD
A DV
AH
MA
AV
 AB: CD:
BV CV
MBA MCD
BH CH
B C

5m
6 kN/m

7m
D DH
MDC
DV
A
AH
MAB
AV

∑ 𝑀𝐵 = 0 ↻ +: ∑ 𝑀𝐶 = 0 ↻ +:
−𝐴𝐻 (7) + 𝑀𝐴𝐵 + 𝑀𝐵𝐴 − 6(7)3.5 = 0 −𝐷𝐻 (5) + 𝑀𝐶𝐷 + 𝑀𝐷𝐶 = 0
𝑀𝐴𝐵 +𝑀𝐵𝐴 −147 𝑀 +𝑀
𝐴𝐻 = 7
(14) 𝐷𝐻 = 𝐶𝐷 5 𝐷𝐶 (15)

Substitute (14) and (15) in (13):

𝑀𝐴𝐵 +𝑀𝐵𝐴 −147 𝑀 +𝑀
+ 𝐶𝐷 𝐷𝐶 = −42
7 5

5(𝑀𝐴𝐵 + 𝑀𝐵𝐴 − 147) + 7(𝑀𝐶𝐷 + 𝑀𝐷𝐶 ) = −1470

2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 6𝐸𝐼∆ 4𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 6𝐸𝐼∆ 4𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 6𝐸𝐼∆ 2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 6𝐸𝐼∆
5( − − 24.5 + − + 24.5 − 147) + 7 ( − + − ) = −1470
7 49 7 49 5 25 5 25

𝟑𝟎𝑬𝑰𝜽𝑩 𝟒𝟐𝑬𝑰𝜽𝑪 𝟓𝟔𝟏𝟔𝑬𝑰∆

+ − = −𝟕𝟑𝟓 (16)
𝟕 𝟓 𝟏𝟐𝟐𝟓

Equate eqns. (11), (12) and (16):

𝟖𝑬𝑰𝜽𝑩 𝟐𝑬𝑰𝜽 𝟔𝑬𝑰∆
+ 𝟕 𝑪 − 𝟒𝟗 = 𝟐𝟑. 𝟓 (11)
𝟕
𝟐𝑬𝑰𝜽𝑩 𝟒𝟖𝑬𝑰𝜽𝑪 𝟔𝑬𝑰∆
+ − = −𝟑𝟔 (12)
𝟕 𝟑𝟓 𝟐𝟓
𝟑𝟎𝑬𝑰𝜽𝑩 𝟒𝟐𝑬𝑰𝜽𝑪 𝟓𝟔𝟏𝟔𝑬𝑰∆
+ − = −𝟕𝟑𝟓 (16)
𝟕 𝟓 𝟏𝟐𝟐𝟓

𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 = 41.94694 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚2 ↻
𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 = −0.10315 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚2 𝑜𝑟 0.10315 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚2 ↺
𝐸𝐼∆= 199.34740 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚3 ⟶

d. Member end moments:

Substitute 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 = 41.94694, 𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 = −0.10315 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐸𝐼∆= 199.34740 in eqns. (7), (8), (3),
(4), (9) and (10):

2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 6𝐸𝐼∆ 4𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵

𝑀𝐴𝐵 = − − 24.5 (7) 𝑀𝐶𝐵 = + + 36 (4)
7 49 7 7
4𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 6𝐸𝐼∆ 4𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 6𝐸𝐼∆
𝑀𝐵𝐴 = − + 24.5 (8) 𝑀𝐶𝐷 = − (9)
7 49 5 25
4𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐵 2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 2𝐸𝐼𝜃𝐶 6𝐸𝐼∆
𝑀𝐵𝐶 = + − 48 (3) 𝑀𝐷𝐶 = − (10)
7 7 5 25

𝑴𝑨𝑩 = −𝟑𝟔. 𝟗𝟐𝟓 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 𝒐𝒓 𝑴𝑨𝑩 = 𝟑𝟔. 𝟗𝟐𝟓 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↺

𝑴𝑩𝑨 = 𝟐𝟒. 𝟎𝟔𝟎 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↻
𝑴𝑩𝑪 = −𝟐𝟒. 𝟎𝟔𝟎 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 or 𝑴𝑩𝑪 = 𝟐𝟒. 𝟎𝟔𝟎 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↺
𝑴𝑪𝑩 = 𝟒𝟕. 𝟗𝟐𝟔 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↻
𝑴𝑪𝑫 = −𝟒𝟕. 𝟗𝟐𝟔 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 𝒐𝒓 𝑴𝑪𝑫 = 𝟒𝟕. 𝟗𝟐𝟔 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↺
𝑴𝑫𝑪 = −𝟒𝟕. 𝟖𝟖𝟓 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 𝒐𝒓 𝑴𝑫𝑪 = 𝟒𝟕. 𝟖𝟖𝟓 𝒌𝑵 − 𝒎 ↺
MOMENT DISTRIBUTION METHOD

● a displacement method of analyzing continuous beams and rigid frames

● developed by Hardy Cross in 1930
● based on a method of successive approximations that may be carried out to any desired
degree of accuracy.

The method begins by assuming each joint of a structure is fixed. Then, by unlocking and locking
each joint in succession, the internal moments at the joints are “distributed” and balanced until
the joints have rotated to their final or nearly final positions. It will be found that this process of
calculation is both repetitive and easy to apply. Before explaining the techniques of moment
distribution, however, certain definitions and concepts must be presented.

Sign Convention. We will establish the same sign convention as that established for the slope-
deflection equations: Clockwise moments that act on the member are considered positive,
whereas counterclockwise moments are negative, Fig. 12–1.

Fixed-End Moments (FEMs). The moments at the “walls” or fixed joints of a loaded member are
called fixed-end moments. For beams loaded only with vertical downward loads, a negative
moment occurs at the left end and a positive moment at the right end.

Member Stiffness Factor,K

is referred to as the stiffness factor at A and can be defined as the amount of moment M required
by the simply supported end of a beam to produce a unit rotation at that end, the other end
being rigidly fixed.

Joint Stiffness Factor. If several members are fixed connected to a joint and each of their far ends
is fixed, then by the principle of superposition, the total stiffness factor at the joint is the sum of
the member stiffness factors at that joint 𝐾𝑇 = ∑ 𝐾.

Distribution Factor (DF). If a moment M is applied to a fixed connected joint, the connecting
members will each supply a portion of the resisting moment necessary to satisfy moment
equilibrium at the joint. That fraction of the total resisting moment supplied by the member is
called the distribution factor (DF).
 DF = 0 ( for fixed end )
DF = 1 ( for an exterior hinged or roller end )

Member Relative-Stiffness Factor. Quite often a continuous beam or a frame will be made from
the same material so its modulus of elasticity E will be the same for all the members. If this is the
case, the common factor 4E in Eq. 12–1 will cancel from the numerator and denominator of Eq.
12–2 when the distribution factor for a joint is determined. Hence, it is easier just to determine
the member’s relative-stiffness factor

and use this for the computations of the DF. If beams are of the same material, only relative K
need to be used.

CARRY OVER MOMENT - is defined as the moment induced at the fixed end of a beam by the
action of a moment applied at the other end. Consider the beam shown.

1
The moment M at the pin induces a moment of 𝑀′ = 2 𝑀 at the wall. Hence, in the case of a
1
beam with the far end fixed, the carry-over factor is + 2. The plus sign indicates both moments
act in the same direction.

Procedure for Analysis

The following procedure provides a general method for determining the end moments on beam
spans using moment distribution.

Distribution Factors and Fixed-End Moments

The joints on the beam should be identified and the stiffness factors for each span at the joints
should be calculated. Using these values the distribution factors can be determined from 𝐷𝐹 =
𝐾/∑𝐾. Remember that for a fixed end 𝐷𝐹 = 0 and for an end pin or roller support 𝐷𝐹 = 1.

The fixed-end moments for each loaded span are determined using the table given on the inside
back cover. Positive FEMs act clockwise on the span and negative FEMs act counterclockwise. For
convenience, these values can be recorded in tabular form.

Moment Distribution Process

Assume that all joints at which the moments in the connecting spans must be determined are
initially locked. Then:
1. Determine the moment that is needed to put each joint in equilibrium.
2. Release or “unlock” the joints and distribute the counterbalancing moments into the
connecting span at each joint.
3. Carry these moments in each span over to its other end by multiplying each moment by the
carry-over factor + ½.
By repeating this cycle of locking and unlocking the joints, it will be found that the moment
corrections will diminish since the beam tends to achieve its final deflected shape. When a small
enough value for the corrections is obtained, the process of cycling should be stopped with no
“carry-over” of the last moments. Each column of
FEMs, distributed moments, and carry-over moments should then be added. If this is done
correctly, moment equilibrium at the joints will be achieved.

MODIFIED STIFFNESS METHOD OF MOMENT DISTRIBUTION

Stiffness-Factor Modifications
In the previous examples of moment distribution we have considered each beam span to be
constrained by a fixed support (locked joint) at its far end when distributing and carrying over the
moments. For this reason we have computed the stiffness factors, distribution factors, and the
carry-over factors based on the case shown in Fig. 12–9. Here, of course, the stiffness factor is
4𝐸𝐼
𝐾 = 𝐿 , and the carry-over factor is +½.

In some cases it is possible to modify the stiffness factor of a particular beam span and thereby
simplify the process of moment distribution.

Member Pin Supported at Far End. Many indeterminate beams have their far end span
supported by an end pin (or roller) as in the case of joint B in Fig. 12–10a. Here the applied
moment M rotates the end A by an amount θ. To determine θ the shear in the conjugate beam
at A’ must be determined, Fig. 12–10b.

We have
1 𝑀 2
∑𝑀𝐵′ = 0] ↺ + 𝑉′𝐴 (𝐿) − 2 (𝐸𝐼) 𝐿 (3 𝐿)=0
𝑀𝐿
𝑉′𝐴 = 𝜃 = 3𝐸𝐼
3𝐸𝐼
or 𝑀= 𝐿
𝜃

Thus, the stiffness factor for this beam is

Also, note that the carry-over factor is zero, since the pin at B does not support a moment. By
4𝐸𝐼
comparison, then, if the far end was fixed supported, the stiffness factor 𝐾 = 𝐿 would have to
3
be modified by 4 to model the case of having the far end pin supported. If this modification is
considered, the moment distribution process is simplified since the end pin does not have to be
unlocked–locked successively when distributing the moments.

Moment Distribution for Frames:

No Sidesway
Application of the moment-distribution method for frames having no sidesway follows the same
procedure as that given for beams. To minimize the chance for errors, it is suggested that the
analysis be arranged in a tabular form, as in the previous examples. Also, the distribution of
moments can be shortened if the stiffness factor of a span can be modified as indicated in the
previous section.

Example 1.
Calculate the final end moments at the supports using moment distribution method.

48 kN
8 kN/m
3m C
A B

6m 4m

48 kN
8 kN/m
MA 3m C
A B

RA 6m RB 4m RC

Solution:

When EI is constant , relative k = I/L may be used. Assume I = LCM of all beam spans
a. Relative beam stiffness, k:
𝐼
𝑘=𝐿 𝐼 = 𝐿𝐶𝑀 = 12
12
AB: 𝑘𝐴𝐵 = 𝑘𝐵𝐴 = =2
6
12
BC: 𝑘𝐵𝐶 = 𝑘𝐶𝐵 = =3
4

b. Distribution factor, DF:

Joint A: 𝐷𝐹𝐴𝐵 = 0 (fixed support)
𝑘
Joint B: 𝐷𝐹 = ∑ 𝑘 (interior joints)
𝑘𝐵𝐴 2 2
𝐷𝐹𝐵𝐴 = = =
𝑘𝐵𝐴 + 𝑘𝐵𝐶 2 + 3 5
𝑘𝐵𝐶 3 3
𝐷𝐹𝐵𝐶 = = =
𝑘𝐵𝐶 + 𝑘𝐵𝐴 3 + 2 5
Joint C: 𝐷𝐹𝐶𝐵 = 1 (exterior roller/hinged support)
c. Fixed end moments, FEMs:

𝑤𝐿2 8(6)2
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐴𝐵 = = = 24 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
12 12
𝑤𝐿2 8(6)2
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐶 = = = 24 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
12 12
BC:
48 kN

1m 3m FEM CB
FEMBC
B C
4m

𝑃𝑎𝑏2 48(1)32
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐶 = = = 27 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
𝐿2 42
𝑃𝑏𝑎2 48(3)12
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐶𝐵 = 2 = = 9 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
𝐿 42

d. Moment distribution:
Using conventional method (Method A):

Joint A B C
Member AB BA BC CB
Cycle
Rel. k= I/L 2 2 3 3
DF= k/∑ 𝑘 0 2/5 3/5 1
1 FEM -24 24 -27 9
1st Distribution 0 6/5 9/5 -9
1st COM 3/5 0 -9/2 9/10
2 2nd Distribution 0 9/5 27/10 -9/10
2nd COM 9/10 0 -9/20 27/20
3
3rd Distribution 0 9/50 27/100 -27/20
3rd COM 9/100 0 -27/40 27/200
4
4th Distribution 0 27/100 81/200 -27/200
4th COM 27/200 0 -27/400 81/400
5
5th Distribution 0 27/1000 81/2000 -81/400
5th COM 27/2000 0 -81/800 81/4000
6
6th Distribution 0 81/2000 243/4000 -81/4000
6th COM 81/4000 0 -81/8000 243/8000
7
7th Distribution 0 81/20000 243/40000 -243/8000
7th COM 81/40000 0 -243/16000 243/80000
8
8th Distribution 0 243/40000 729/80000 -243/80000

Final End
-22.239 27.528 -27.528 0
Moments (kN-m)

1st cycle of moment distribution Joint B:

Joint A: Unbalance moment at B , 𝑈𝑀𝐵 = 24 + (−27) = −3
Unbalance moment at A , 𝑈𝑀𝐴 = −24 Balanced moment at B, 𝐵𝑀𝐵 = 3
Balanced moment at A, 𝐵𝑀𝐴 = 24 1st Dist. BA =BMB (DFBA) = 3(2/5) = 6/5
1st Dist. AB =BMA (DFAB) = 24(0) = 0 1st Dist. BC =BMB (DFBC) = 3(3/5) = 9/5
 Joint C: 1 6 1 3
1st COMAB= 1𝑠𝑡 𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑡.𝐵𝐴 (2) = 5 (2) = 5
Unbalance moment at C , 𝑈𝑀𝐶 = 9 1 1
Balanced moment at C, 𝐵𝑀𝐶 = −9 1st COMBA= 1𝑠𝑡 𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑡.𝐴𝐵 (2) = 0 (2) = 0
1 1 9
1st Dist. CB =BMC (DFCB) = −9(1) = −9 1st COMBC= 1𝑠𝑡 𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑡.𝐶𝐵 (2) = −9 (2) = − 2
1 9 1 9
Carry over moments, COM 1st COMCB= 1𝑠𝑡 𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑡.𝐵𝐶 (2) = 5 (2) = 10
Example 2.
Solve the problem in ex. 1 using modified stiffness method of moment distribution.
48 kN
8 kN/m
3m C
A B

6m 4m
El is constant
Note: the modified stiffness method is applied only on the span containing an exterior
hinge/roller support.

a. Relative beam stiffness, k:

𝐼
𝑘=𝐿 𝐼 = 𝐿𝐶𝑀 = 12
12
AB: 𝑘𝐴𝐵 = 𝑘𝐵𝐴 = =2
6
12
BC: 𝑘𝐵𝐶 = 𝑘𝐶𝐵 = 4 = 3
Modified stiffness, mod. k:
3
𝑚𝑜𝑑. 𝑘 = 𝑘
4
3 3 9
BC: 𝑚𝑜𝑑. 𝑘𝐵𝐶/𝐶𝐵 = 4 𝑘𝐵𝐶/𝐶𝐵 = 4 (3) = 4

b. Distribution factor, DF:

Joint A: 𝐷𝐹𝐴𝐵 = 0 (fixed support)
𝑘
Joint B: 𝐷𝐹 = ∑ 𝑘 (interior joints)
𝑘𝐵𝐴 2 8
𝐷𝐹𝐵𝐴 = = =
𝑘𝐵𝐴 + 𝑚𝑜𝑑. 𝑘𝐵𝐶 2 + 9 17
4
9
𝑚𝑜𝑑. 𝑘𝐵𝐶 9
𝐷𝐹𝐵𝐶 = = 4 =
𝑚𝑜𝑑. 𝑘𝐵𝐶 + 𝑘𝐵𝐴 9 + 2 17
4
Joint C: 𝐷𝐹𝐶𝐵 = 1 (exterior roller/hinged support)

c. Fixed end moments, FEMs:

𝑤𝐿2 8(6)2
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐴𝐵 = = = 24 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
12 12
𝑤𝐿2 8(6)2
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐶 = = = 24 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
12 12
BC:
48 kN

1m 3m FEM CB
FEMBC
B C
4m
 𝑃𝑎𝑏2 48(1)32
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐶 = 2 = = 27 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
𝐿 42
2 2
𝑃𝑏𝑎 48(3)1
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐶𝐵 = 2 = = 9 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
𝐿 42

d. Moment distribution:
Using modified moment distribution (Method B):

Joint A B C
Member AB BA BC CB
Cycle Rel. k= I/L 2 2 3 3
Mod. k=3/4 k 9/4 9/4
DF= k/∑ 𝑘 0 8/17 9/17 1
1 FEM -24 24 -27 9
1st Distribution 0 24/17 27/17 -9
1st COM 12/17 0 -9/2 0
2 2nd Distribution 0 36/17 81/34 0
2nd COM 18/17 0 0 0
3
3rd Distribution 0 0 0 0

Final End -378/17 = 468/17 = -468/17 =

0
Moments (kN-m) - 22.235 27.529 27.529

Note. a) in using the modified stiffness method, the member (CB) containing an ext.
hinge/roller support should “carry over” ½ of its moment to its opposite end (BC) “just
once”. b.) no further moments will be carried over to CB from BC.

B. Alternative Procedure (Method C):

Joint A B C
Member AB BA BC CB
Rel. k= I/L 2 2 3 3
Cycle Mod. k=3/4 k 9/4 9/4
DF= k/∑ 𝑘 0 8/17 9/17 1
FEM -24 24 -27 9
Release joint C, distribute -9/2 -9
and carry over
Adjusted FEM -24 24 -63/2 0
1
1st Distribution 0 60/17 135/34 0
1st COM 30/17 0 0 0
2 2nd Distribution 0 0 0 0

Final End -378/17 = 468/17 = -468/17 =

0
Moments (kN-m) - 22.235 27.529 27.529
Example 3:
Calculate the moments at the supports owing to the effect of ½ inch settlement at support B,
using moment distribution method. E – constant, E = 30000 k/in2 , I = 1000 in4
C
A B
60' 40'
4I 3I
Solution:
C
A B
½”

B’
60' 40'
4I 3I
When E is constant, relative stiffnes k may be used:

a. Relative beam stiffness, k:

𝐼
𝑘=𝐿 𝐼 = 1000 𝑖𝑛4
4(1000) 200
AB: 𝑘𝐴𝐵 = 𝑘𝐵𝐴 = =
60 3
3(1000)
BC: 𝑘𝐵𝐶 = 𝑘𝐶𝐵 = 40 = 75
Modified stiffness, mod. k:
3
𝑚𝑜𝑑. 𝑘 = 𝑘
4
3 3 225
BC: 𝑚𝑜𝑑. 𝑘𝐵𝐶 = 4 𝑘𝐵𝐶 = 4 (75) = 4
𝐶𝐵 𝐶𝐵

b. Distribution factor, DF:

Joint A: 𝐷𝐹𝐴𝐵 = 0 (fixed support)
𝑘
Joint B: 𝐷𝐹 = ∑ 𝑘 (interior joints)
200
𝑘𝐵𝐴 3 32
𝐷𝐹𝐵𝐴 = = =
𝑘𝐵𝐴 + 𝑚𝑜𝑑. 𝑘𝐵𝐶 200 + 225 59
3 4
225
𝑚𝑜𝑑. 𝑘𝐵𝐶 4 27
𝐷𝐹𝐵𝐶 = = =
𝑚𝑜𝑑. 𝑘𝐵𝐶 + 𝑘𝐵𝐴 225 + 200 59
4 3
Joint C: 𝐷𝐹𝐶𝐵 = 1 (exterior roller/hinged support)

c. Fixed end moments, FEMs:

AB:

FEMAB FEMBA
A B
60‘

1𝑓𝑡 2 625,000
𝐸𝐼 = (30000 𝑘/𝑖𝑛2 )1000 𝑖𝑛4 = (3𝑥107 𝑘 − 𝑖𝑛2 ) ( 12 ) = 3 𝑘 − 𝑓𝑡 2 ↺
(4)625,000 0.5
6𝐸(4𝐼)∆ 6 ( 3
)
12 3125
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐴𝐵 = 𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐶 = = = 𝑘 − 𝑓𝑡𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐶
𝐿2 602 54
 BC:

FEMBC FEMCB
B C
40'
(3)625,000 0.5
6𝐸(3𝐼)∆ 6 ( 3
)
12 3125
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐴𝐵 = 𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐶 = = = 𝑘 − 𝑓𝑡 ↻
𝐿2 402 32

d. Moment distribution:
Using modified moment distribution (Method B):

Joint A B C
Member AB BA BC CB
Cycle Rel. k= I/L 200/3 200/3 75 75
Mod. k=3/4 k 225/4 225/4
DF= k/∑ 𝑘 0 32/59 27/59 1
1 FEM -3125/54 -3125/54 3125/32 3125/32
1st Distribution 0 -21.57878 -18.2071 -3125/32
1st COM -10.78939 0 -3125/64 0
2 2nd Distribution 0 3125/118 22.34507 0
2nd COM 3125/236 0 0 0
3
3rd Distribution 0 0 0 0

Final End
-55.418 -52.966 52.966 0
Moments (k-ft)

Problem:
Calculate the end moments at the supports using moment distribution method. EI - constant

Solution:
a. Relative beam stiffness, k:
𝐼
𝑘=𝐿 𝐼 = 𝐿𝐶𝑀 = 6
6
BD: 𝑘𝐵𝐷 = 𝑘𝐷𝐵 = 6 = 1
6
DE: 𝑘𝐷𝐸 = 𝑘𝐸𝐷 = 6 = 1

Modified stiffness, mod. k:

3
𝑚𝑜𝑑. 𝑘 = 𝑘
4
3 3 3
BD: 𝑚𝑜𝑑. 𝑘𝐵𝐷/𝐷𝐵 = 4 𝑘𝐵𝐷/𝐷𝐵 = 4 (1) = 4

b. Distribution factor, DF:

Joint B: 𝐷𝐹𝐵𝐷 = 1 (end roller support)
 𝐷𝐹𝐵𝐴 = 0 (overhang)
𝑘
Joint D: 𝐷𝐹 = ∑ 𝑘 (interior joint)
3
𝑚𝑜𝑑 𝑘𝐷𝐵 3
𝐷𝐹𝐷𝐵 = = 4 =
𝑚𝑜𝑑 𝑘𝐷𝐵 + 𝑘𝐷𝐸 3 + 1 7
4
𝑘𝐷𝐸 1 4
𝐷𝐹𝐷𝐸 = = =
𝑘𝐷𝐸 + 𝑚𝑜𝑑 𝑘𝐷𝐵 1 + 3 7
4

Joint E: 𝐷𝐹𝐸𝐷 = 0 (fixed support)

c. Fixed end moments, FEMs:

BD: 160 kN

3m 3m FEMDB
FEMBD
B D
6m

𝑃𝐿 160(6)
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐷 = = = 120 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
8 8
𝑃𝐿 160(6)
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐷𝐵 = = = 120 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
8 8

DE:
30 kN/m

FEMDE FEMED
D E
6m

𝑤𝐿2 30(6)2
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐷𝐸 = = = 90 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
12 12
𝑤𝐿2 30(6)2
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐶 = = = 90 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
12 12

d. Moment distribution: Using modified moment distribution (Method B)

Joint B D E
Member BA BD DB DE ED
Cycle Rel. k= I/L 1 1 1 1
Mod. k=3/4 k 3/4 3/4
DF= k/∑ 𝑘 0 1 3/7 4/7 0
1 FEM 67.5 -120 120 -90 90
1st Distribution 0 105/2 -90/7 -120/7 0
1st COM 0 0 105/4 0 -60/7
2 2nd Distribution 0 0 -45/4 -15 0
2nd COM 0 0 0 -15/2
3
3rd Distribution 0 0 0 0
Final End -135/2= 855/7 = -855/7 = 1035/14 =
67.5
Moments (kN-m) -67.5 122.143 -122.143 73.929
Analysis of Rigid Frames Using Moment Distribution Method

Example1. Calculate the final or actual end moments in the rigid frame shown using moment
distribution Method.
48 kN
18 kN/m
3m 2m
A
2I B 6m 3I C

I 4m

Solution:
48 kN
18 kN/m
3m 2m
A
B 6m C

4m

𝑠𝑠 = 2𝑗 − [2(𝑓 + ℎ) + 𝑟 + 𝑚]
𝑠𝑠 = 2(4) − [2(2 + 1) + 0 + 3]
𝑠𝑠 = −1 ∴ 𝑛𝑜 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑠𝑤𝑎𝑦

a. Relative beam stiffness, k:

𝐼
𝑘=𝐿 𝐼 = 𝐿𝐶𝑀 = 60
2(60)
AB: 𝑘𝐴𝐵 = 𝑘𝐵𝐴 = = 24
5
3(60)
BC: 𝑘𝐵𝐶 = 𝑘𝐶𝐵 = = 30
6
60
BD: 𝑘𝐵𝐷 = 𝑘𝐷𝐵 = = 15
4

Modified stiffness, mod. k:

3
𝑚𝑜𝑑. 𝑘 = 𝑘
4
3 3
AB: 𝑚𝑜𝑑. 𝑘𝐴𝐵/𝐵𝐴 = 4 𝑘𝐴𝐵/𝐵𝐴 = 4 (24) = 18

b. Distribution factor, DF:

Joint A: 𝐷𝐹𝐴𝐵 = 1 (end hinge support)
𝑘
Joint B: 𝐷𝐹 = ∑ 𝑘 (interior joint)
𝑚𝑜𝑑. 𝑘𝐵𝐴 18 2
𝐷𝐹𝐵𝐴 = = =
𝑚𝑜𝑑. 𝑘𝐵𝐴 + 𝑘𝐵𝐶 + 𝑘𝐵𝐷 18 + 30 + 15 7
𝑘𝐵𝐶 30 10
𝐷𝐹𝐵𝐶 = = =
𝑘𝐵𝐶 + 𝑚𝑜𝑑. 𝑘𝐵𝐴 + 𝑘𝐵𝐷 30 + 18 + 15 21
𝑘𝐵𝐷 15 5
𝐷𝐹𝐵𝐷 = = =
𝑘𝐵𝐷 + 𝑚𝑜𝑑. 𝑘𝐵𝐴 + 𝑘𝐵𝐶 15 + 18 + 30 21

Joint C: 𝐷𝐹𝐶𝐵 = 0 (fixed support)

Joint D: 𝐷𝐹𝐷𝐵 = 0 (fixed support)
 c. Fixed End Moments , FEM:
AB: 48 kN

3m 2m FEM
FEMAB BA
A B
5m

𝑃𝑎𝑏2 48(3)22
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐴𝐵 = = = 23.04 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
𝐿2 52
𝑃𝑏𝑎2 48(2)32
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐴 = 2 = = 34.56 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
𝐿 52
BC:
18 kN/m

FEMBC FEMCB
B C
6m
2
𝑤𝐿 18(6)2
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐶 = = = 54 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
12 12
2 2
𝑤𝐿 18(6)
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐶𝐵 = = = 54 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
12 12

BD: 𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐷 = 0 𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐷𝐵 = 0

d. Moment distribution:
Using Alternative Procedure (Method C):

Joint A B C D
Member AB BA BD BC CB DB
Rel. k= I/L 24 24 15 30 30 15
Cycle Mod. k=3/4 k 18 18
DF= k/∑ 𝑘 1.0 2/7 5/21 10/21 0 0
FEM -23.04 34.56 0 -54 54 0
Release joint A, 23. 04
distribute and carry over
288/25
Adjusted FEM 0 1152/25 0 -54 54 0
1
1st Distribution 0 396/175 66/35 132/35 0 0
1st COM 0 0 0 0 66/35 33/35
2 2nd Distribution 0 0 0 0 0 0
Final End 1692/35 66/35 = -1758/35 1956/35 33/35 =
0
Moments (kN-m) =48.343 1.886 = -50.229 =55.886 0.943
 Problem 2:
Calculate the member end moments and reactions for the rigid frame shown using moment
distribution method. EI - constant
49 kN

B 3m 4m
C

5m
6 kN/m

7m
D

A
Solution:
𝑠𝑠 = 2𝑗 − [2(𝑓 + ℎ) + 𝑟 + 𝑚]
𝑠𝑠 = 2(4) − [2(2 + 0) + 0 + 3]
𝑠𝑠 = 1𝑜 ∴ 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑠𝑤𝑎𝑦

49 kN 49 kN Imaginary clamp
(roller/hinge)
B 3m 4m B 3m 4m C B 3m 4m C C’
C R R
B’

5m = 5m
+
5m
6 kN/m

6 kN/m

7m 7m 7m
D D D

A A A

(a) Actual Frame – M moments (b) Frame with Sidesway (c) Frame subjected to R-
prevented-Mo moments MR moments

A. Consider the frame held from sidesway or the frame with sidesway prevented, fig. (b):
a. Relative beam stiffness, k:
𝐼
𝑘= 𝐼 = 𝐿𝐶𝑀 = 35
𝐿
35
AB: 𝑘𝐴𝐵 = 𝑘𝐵𝐴 = =5
7
35
BC: 𝑘𝐵𝐶 = 𝑘𝐶𝐵 = =5
7
35
CD: 𝑘𝐶𝐷 = 𝑘𝐷𝐶 = 5 = 7
b. Distribution factor, DF:
Joint A: 𝐷𝐹𝐴𝐵 = 0 (fixed support)
𝑘
Joint B: 𝐷𝐹 = ∑ 𝑘 (interior joint)
𝑘𝐵𝐴 5 1
𝐷𝐹𝐵𝐴 = = =
𝑘𝐵𝐴 + 𝑘𝐵𝐶 5 + 5 2
𝑘𝐵𝐶 5 1
𝐷𝐹𝐵𝐶 = = =
𝑘𝐵𝐶 + 𝑘𝐵𝐴 5+5 2

𝑘𝐶𝐵 5 5
Joint C: 𝐷𝐹𝐶𝐵 = = 5+7 = 12
𝑘𝐶𝐵 + 𝑘𝐶𝐷
𝑘𝐶𝐷 7 7
𝐷𝐹𝐶𝐵 = = =
𝑘𝐶𝐷 + 𝑘𝐶𝐵 7 + 5 12

Joint D: 𝐷𝐹𝐷𝐶 = 0 (fixed support)

 c. Fixed End Moments , FEM:
AB:
FEMBA
𝑤𝐿2 6(7)2
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐴𝐵 = = = 24.5 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
B 12 12
2 2
𝑤𝐿 6(7)
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐴 = = = 24.5 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
12 12
6 kN/m

7m

FEM AB

BC: 49 kN

3m 4m
FEMBC FEM
C CB
B
7m

𝑃𝑎𝑏2 49(3)42
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐶 = = = 48 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
𝐿2 72
𝑃𝑏𝑎2 49(4)32
𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐶𝐵 = 2 = = 36 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
𝐿 72

CD: 𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐶𝐷 = 0 𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐷𝐶 = 0

d. Moment distribution:
Using conventional method (Method A):

Joint A B C D
Member AB BA BC CB CD DC
Cycle
Rel. k= I/L 5 5 5 5 7 7
DF= k/∑ 𝑘 0 1/2 1/2 5/12 7/12 0
1 FEM -24.5 24.5 -48 36 0 0
st
1 Distribution 0 47/4 47/4 -15 -21 0
1st COM 47/8 0 -15/2 47/8 0 -21/2
2
2nd Distribution 0 15/4 15/4 -235/96 -329/96 0
2nd COM 15/8 0 -235/192 15/8 0 -329/192
3
3rd Distribution 0 235/384 235/384 -25/32 -35/32 0
3rd COM 235/768 0 -25/64 235/768 0 -35/64
4
4th Distribution 0 25/128 25/128 -1175/9216 -1645/9216 0
4th COM 25/256 0 -1175/18432 25/256 0 -1645/18432
5
5th Distribution 0 1175/36864 1175/36864 -125/3072 -175/3072 0
5th COM 1175/73728 0 -125/6144 1175/73728 0 -75/6144
6
6th Distribution 0 125/12288 125/12288 -6.6404x10-3 -9.29656x10-3 0
6th COM 125/24576 0 -3.3202 x10-3 125/24576 0 -4.64828x10-3
7
7th Distribution 0 1.6601x10-3 1.6601x10-3 -625/294912 -875/294912 0

Final End
-16.325 40.851 -40.851 25.769 -25.769 -12.867
Moments (kN-m), 𝑀𝑜
e. Solve for R:
Consider ABCD (fig. b), AB, CD as FBDs

ABCD:
49 kN

B 3m 4m C
R

5m
6 kN/m

7m
D
DH
MD
A DV
AH
MA
AV

∑ 𝐹𝐻 = 0 → +:
𝐴𝐻 + 𝐷𝐻 − 𝑅 + 6(7) = 0 (1)

∑ 𝑀𝐵 = 0 ↻ +: ∑ 𝑀𝐶 = 0 ↻ +:
−𝐴𝐻 (7) + 𝑀𝐴𝐵 + 𝑀𝐵𝐴 − 6(7)3.5 = 0 −𝐷𝐻 (5) + 𝑀𝐷𝐶 + 𝑀𝐶𝐷 = 0
−𝐴𝐻 (7) − 16.325 + 40.851 − 6(7)3.5 = 0 −𝐷𝐻 (5) − 12.867 − 25.769 = 0
𝐴𝐻 = −17.496 𝑘𝑁 𝐷𝐻 = −7.7272 𝑘𝑁

Subs. 𝐴𝐻 = −17.496 𝑘𝑁 and 𝐷𝐻 = −7.7272 𝑘𝑁 in (1):

−𝑅 + 6(7) − 17.496 − 7.7272 = 0
𝑹 = 𝟏𝟔. 𝟕𝟕𝟔𝟖 𝐤𝐍

B. Sidesway Permitted

Since the moment distribution method cannot be used directly to compute member end
moments MR due to the lateral load R= 16.7768 kN, we use an indirect approach in which the
frame is subjected to an arbitrary known joint translation ∆′ caused by an unknown load Q acting
at the location and in the direction of R.
 ‘ ‘
B 3m 4m C C’ B 3m 4m C C’
R Q
B’ 50 kN-m B’
98 kN-m
5m 5m

7m 7m
D D

A A 98 kN-m
50 kN-m
(c) Frame subjected to R- (d) Frame subjected to an
M R moments arbitrary translation ‘
M Q moments

a. Fixed End Moments due to ∆′, assume 𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐴𝐵 = 𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐴 = 50 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺

6𝐸𝐼∆′
AB: 𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐴𝐵 = 𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐵𝐴 = = 50 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
𝐿2
6𝐸𝐼∆′ 6𝐸𝐼∆′
= 50 ; = 50
𝐿2 72
1225
𝐸𝐼∆′ = 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚3
3
1225
6𝐸𝐼∆′ 6( )
3
CD: 𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐶𝐷 = 𝐹𝐸𝑀𝐷𝐶 = = = 98 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
𝐿2 5 2

b. Moment distribution:
Using conventional method (Method A):

Joint A B C D
Member AB BA BC CB CD DC
Cycle
Rel. k= I/L 5 5 5 5 7 7
DF= k/∑ 𝑘 0 1/2 1/2 5/12 7/12 0
1 FEM -50 -50 0 0 -98 -98
st
1 Distribution 0 25 25 245/6 343/6 0
1st COM 25/2 0 245/12 25/2 0 343/12
2
2nd Distribution 0 -245/24 -245/24 -125/24 -175/24 0
nd -245/48 0 -125/48 -245/48 0 -175/48
2 COM
3
3rd Distribution 0 125/96 125/96 1225/576 1715/576 0
3rd COM 125/192 0 1225/1152 125/192 0 1715/1152
4
4th Distribution 0 -1225/2304 -1225/2304 -625/2304 -875/2304 0
4th COM -1225/4608 0 -625/4608 -1225/4608 0 -875/4608
5
5th Distribution 0 625/9216 625/9216 6125/55296 8575/55296 0
5th COM 625/18432 0 6125/110592 625/18432 0 8575/110592
6
6th Distribution 0 -6125/221184 -6125/221184 -3125/221184 -4375/221184 0
6th COM -6125/442368 0 -3125/442368 -6125/442368 0 -4375/442368
7
7th Distribution 0 3125/884736 3125/884736 30625/5308416 42875/5308416 0
7th COM 3125/1769472 0 30625/10616832 3125/1769472 0 42875/10616832
8 -3 -3
-7.3586x10-4 -3
8th Distribution 0 -1.44229x10 -1.44229x10 -1.03020x 0

Final End
-42.197 -34.396 -34.396 45.385 -45.385 -71.692
Moments (kN-m), 𝑀𝑄
e. Solve for Q:
Consider ABCD (fig. d), AB, CD as FBDs

ABCD:
B
7m C Q

5m

7m
D
DH
MD D V
A
AH
MA
AV

∑ 𝐹𝐻 = 0 → +:
𝐴𝐻 + 𝐷𝐻 − 𝑄 = 0 (2)

AB:
BV
MBA
BH
B

7m

A
AH
MAB
AV

∑ 𝑀𝐵 = 0 ↻ +: ∑ 𝑀𝐶 = 0 ↻ +:
−𝐴𝐻 (7) + 𝑀𝐴𝐵 + 𝑀𝐵𝐴 = 0 −𝐷𝐻 (5) + 𝑀𝐷𝐶 + 𝑀𝐶𝐷 = 0
−𝐴𝐻 (7) − 42.197 − 34.396 = 0 −𝐷𝐻 (5) − 71.692 − 45.385 = 0
𝐴𝐻 = −10.942 𝑘𝑁 𝐷𝐻 = −23.4154 𝑘𝑁

Subs. 𝐴𝐻 = −10.942 𝑘𝑁 and 𝐷𝐻 = −23.4154 𝑘𝑁in (2):

𝑄 − 10.942 − 23.4154 = 0
𝑸 = 𝟑𝟒. 𝟑𝟓𝟕𝟒 𝐤𝐍

C. Solving for the M-moments:

𝑅
𝐹𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑒𝑛𝑑 𝑚𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠 = 𝑀0 + ( ) 𝑀𝑄
𝑄
16.7768
𝑀𝐴𝐵 = −16.325 + ( ) (−42.197) = −36.93 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 𝑜𝑟 𝑀𝐴𝐵 = 36.93 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
34.3574

16.7768
𝑀𝐵𝐴 = 40.851 + (34.3574) (−34.396) = 24.055 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
 16.7768
𝑀𝐵𝐶 = −40.851 + ( ) (34.396) = −24.055 𝑜𝑟 𝑀𝐵𝐶 = 24.055 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
34.3574
16.7768
𝑀𝐶𝐵 = 25.769 + ( ) 45.385 = 47.931 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
34.3574
16.7768
𝑀𝐶𝐷 = −25.769 + ( ) (−45.385) = −47.931 𝑜𝑟 𝑀𝐶𝐷 = 47.931 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
34.3574
16.7768
𝑀𝐷𝐶 = −12.867 + ( ) (−71.692) = −47.874 𝑜𝑟 𝑀𝐷𝐶 = 47.874 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
34.3574

Final End Moments using Slope Deflection Method:

𝑀𝐴𝐵 = −36.925 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 𝑜𝑟 𝑀𝐴𝐵 = 36.925 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺

𝑀𝐵𝐴 = 24.060 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
𝑀𝐵𝐶 = −24.060 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 or 𝑀𝐵𝐶 = 24.060 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
𝑀𝐶𝐵 = 47.926 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↻
𝑀𝐶𝐷 = −47.926 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 𝑜𝑟 𝑀𝐶𝐷 = 47.926 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺
𝑀𝐷𝐶 = −47.885 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 𝑜𝑟 𝑀𝐷𝐶 = 47.885 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚 ↺