Ultimate Design assigns each load a load factor (multiplying constant) and combines the resulting

modified load values in various ways. The total load is then modified with a probability factor. The end
result is compared to the ultimate capacity of the entire structure. This method provides a more
consistent reliability figure than the Allowable Stress Design method but may not be as economical at
higher failure rate probabilities (higher or more variable loads). This may be seen as a simpler method
of determining structural loads but in turn it produces fairly conservative numbers.

Ultimate Design (Strength Design) provides a uniform reliability number for the building as a whole and
in uses and environments where the safety factors are low. Ultimate Design will result in a more
economical design for a building with fewer special needs for customized areas of reinforcement, such
as that needed for heavy roofing or equipment or to withstand high winds or snow loads.

Instead of assigning a load factor to each structural load, Allowable Strength Design uses some fraction
of the various loads that represents the probabilities that two or more loads will occur and/or fail
simultaneously. These fractional loads are then combined in various ways to provide a failure probability
or reliability number.

The total stress load for each load combination is compared to an allowable stress value that is
derived from what is called the yield stress of the steel members (structural frame components such as
columns and beams). There are also reductions and factors that come into play during certain
circumstances such as earthquake or to modify the result of two or more loads that are added to the
dead load.

ASD better determines design for higher safety factor needs where a building is more prone to
environmental pressures or must bear heavier loads that stress a specific portion of a building. The
economy is found through building with materials that will keep the failure rate, and thus the repair and
maintenance rate, to a minimum.

ASD is a bit more complicated but may be more economical overall since more variables are taken into
consideration.

TYPES OF SUPPORT
Ultimate Design assigns each load a load factor (multiplying constant) and combines the resulting
modified load values in various ways. The total load is then modified with a probability factor. The end
result is compared to the ultimate capacity of the entire structure. This method provides a more consistent
reliability figure than the Allowable Stress Design method but may not be as economical at higher failure
rate probabilities (higher or more variable loads). This may be seen as a simpler method of determining
structural loads but in turn it produces fairly conservative numbers.

ALLOWABLE STRESS DESIGN (ASD) Instead of assigning a load factor to each structural load, ASD
uses some fraction of the various loads that represents the probabilities that two or more loads will occur
and/or fail simultaneously. These fractional loads are then combined in various ways to provide a failure
probability or reliability number.
The total stress load for each load combination is compared to an allowable stress value that is derived
from what is called the yield stress of the steel members (structural frame components such as columns
and beams). There are also reductions and factors that come into play during certain circumstances such
as earthquake or to modify the result of two or more loads that are added to the dead load.
ASD is a bit more complicated but may be more economical overall since more variables are taken into
consideration.
WHICH TO USE As noted above, each building has its own unique use and environment. Engineering
judgment is critical to making the appropriate decisions concerning the materials, composition, and
construction of your building for the highest level of safety and reliability. Also, local building codes and
national standards must be met.
Ultimate Design (Strength Design) provides a uniform reliability number for the building as a whole and in
uses and environments where the safety factors are low. Ultimate Design will result in a more economical
design for a building with fewer special needs for customized areas of reinforcement, such as that needed
for heavy roofing or equipment or to withstand high winds or snow loads.
Allowable Strength Design better determines design for higher safety factor needs where a building is
more prone to environmental pressures or must bear heavier loads that stress a specific portion of a
building. The economy is found through building with materials that will keep the failure rate, and thus the
repair and maintenance rate, to a minimum.
In all cases, it is important to communicate the need for any non-standard types of structural loads to the
building manufacturer as early as possible, preferably during the bidding or negotiating stage, due to the
changes they entail in materials, scheduling, and construction. Early consultation and clear
communication with the building manufacturer will keep the project on track with fewer surprises.
 TYPES OF SUPPORT

FIXED SUPPORT PINNED CONNECTION

ROLLER FIXED COLLAR

SPRING