Structural steel design using the AISC Steel Construction Manual — shear, load paths, compression and tension members, flexure, serviceability, and connections.
Each topic below has a video walkthrough. Watch in whatever order suits what you’re working on.
Steel Design Topics
One video per concept
Shear Design
Shear forces are one of the most fundamental aspects engineers must consider when designing steel members. Shear occurs when forces act parallel to a cross-section of a member, potentially causing sliding failures. The AISC Steel Manual provides detailed methods for calculating shear strength, including considerations for web yielding and web buckling in beams. Shear design typically involves comparing the applied shear force to the nominal shear capacity of the section and adjusting the section size or web stiffeners as needed. Example problems often focus on finding the required web thickness, allowable shear stress, or determining if stiffeners are necessary at supports and concentrated loads.
Load Path
A load path is the route through which loads travel from their point of application to the ground. In structural steel systems, properly identifying and designing the load path ensures that loads are transferred safely without causing instability. Typical load paths might include roofing panels transferring loads to purlins, then to girders, columns, and finally to the foundation. AISC steel design examples often demonstrate how to track both vertical and lateral load paths through a structure, verify member adequacy along the path, and ensure connections can safely transmit forces. Examples also clarify the importance of continuous and redundant load paths for resilience against unexpected load conditions.
Compression Members
Compression members, such as columns, braces, and struts, carry axial compressive loads. AISC steel design examples usually involve calculating the critical buckling load using the Euler buckling formula or AISC’s design equations for different slenderness ratios. The examples show how to select appropriate shapes, calculate effective length factors, and check both local and global buckling conditions. Problems might ask you to size a column for a given axial load, verify whether a braced frame column meets code requirements, or determine the maximum unbraced length allowed for a given section.
Serviceability
Serviceability refers to a structure’s ability to remain functional and comfortable under expected loads without excessive deflections, vibrations, or other non-failure issues. The AISC Steel Manual provides guidelines for limiting deflections in beams, floor vibrations, and lateral sway in frames. AISC steel design examples in this category typically include calculating maximum allowable deflections for a beam span under distributed loads, verifying lateral displacement of a frame under wind or seismic loads, or assessing vibration frequencies in lightweight floor systems. Serviceability checks are crucial for ensuring structures not only stand safely but also perform well in everyday use.
Tension Members
Tension members, such as rods, angles, and plates subjected to axial tension, are common in trusses, bracing systems, and hangers. AISC steel design examples in this area demonstrate how to calculate the effective net area, check tensile yielding and rupture strengths, and assess block shear rupture at connections. Typical problems may ask you to select a member to resist a given axial load, determine required connection bolt arrangements, or verify member adequacy under both tension and shear. These examples reinforce the importance of both member strength and connection design in tension applications.
Flexural Members
Flexural members, including beams and girders, resist bending caused by loads perpendicular to their length. AISC steel design examples for flexural members typically involve calculating moment capacity, considering lateral-torsional buckling, and evaluating local flange or web buckling. Example problems may ask you to select an appropriate beam size for a specific span and load, calculate lateral-torsional buckling capacity, or check the moment capacity of a beam with unbraced lengths. These exercises help you understand how different factors like bracing, shape selection, and material properties affect flexural performance.
Connections
Connections are critical components in structural systems, transferring forces between members safely and efficiently. AISC steel design examples for connections include bolted and welded joints subjected to axial, shear, or moment forces. Problems typically involve calculating required bolt quantities, selecting bolt sizes and patterns, verifying weld lengths and sizes, and checking connection adequacy under combined loading. Well-designed connections are essential for structural integrity, as failures often originate at connection points rather than within the members themselves.
Quick Review with Shorts
Need a fast refresher before a quiz or assignment? Our YouTube Shorts cover single steel design concepts in about a minute.
Written Examples
For students who learn best by reading through problems, we’ve included written steel design examples for every major topic. Each example walks you through the process step-by-step, from selecting a section to applying AISC code checks and verifying your final answer. These examples are a perfect complement to our videos and quizzes. They give you another effective way to master AISC steel design methods.
Homework Help
If you’re working on homework involving AISC steel design examples, our resources can make your assignments easier and more understandable. Each example walks through problem statements, formulas, and step-by-step solutions. You’ll learn how to approach complex problems methodically and avoid common mistakes. Whether it’s a beam design under lateral-torsional buckling, column slenderness checks, or bolted connection strength calculations, our homework help section covers the procedures and concepts you need to master.
One-on-One Tutoring
Sometimes, a personal walkthrough makes all the difference. That’s why we offer tutoring services for AISC steel design examples and structural engineering topics. You’ll work with experienced tutors who can help clarify difficult concepts, double-check your calculations, and explain code provisions in detail. Sessions are customized to your coursework, professional projects, or exam prep needs, providing the tailored support necessary to build your confidence and skills in structural steel design.
Discussion Boards
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