Design of Tension Members MCQ with answer and solution

Concept

Failure modes of steel tension members

Formula

NONE

Step-by-step solution

1. Design of structural steel tension members according to IS 800:2007 considers tensile limit states. 2. The recognized failure modes for tension members are gross section yielding, net section rupture, and block shear failure. 3. Local buckling occurs under compressive stresses and is not a failure mode of tension members. Answer: C

Explanation

Structural tension members fail due to gross section yielding, net section fracture, or block shear failure at connected ends. Local buckling occurs under compressive axial stresses or flexural compression, which cannot happen when a member is subjected purely to tensile forces. Therefore, local buckling is exclusively a compression-driven instability mode and not a tension failure mode.

Why the other options are wrong

A) Gross section yielding is a standard failure mode in tension members. B) Net section rupture is a recognized limit state at fastener holes in tension members. D) Block shear failure is a valid failure mode at the connections of tension members.

Shortcut

Buckling is a compression failure mode, not a tension failure mode.

Common mistake

Confusing local buckling, which occurs in compression members, with tension member failure modes.