Select the correct statements about the shear centre of open sections and its relation to bending loads.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: All the above.

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The shear centre is the point in the cross-section through which a transverse load must act to produce bending without twist. Its location depends on the geometry and symmetry of the section and is critical for thin-walled open sections in structural design.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Open thin-walled sections (I, channel, angle) are considered.
  • Linear elastic behavior; small deformations.
  • Loads may be eccentric to centroid, inducing twist.


Concept / Approach:
For sections with two axes of symmetry (e.g., ideal I-sections), the shear flows are symmetric and the shear centre lies at the centroid. For singly-symmetric or unsymmetric open sections (channels, angles), the shear centre is offset from the centroid to balance shear flows and prevent torsion. Applying loads through the shear centre prevents coupled bending–twisting response.



Step-by-Step Solution:
Define shear centre: point of zero twist under transverse loading.I-sections: double symmetry → shear centre at centroid.Channels: asymmetry → shear centre shifts outside or away from centroidal location.Design implication: place loads through shear centre to avoid torsional effects.


Verification / Alternative check:
Standard tables show shear-centre locations: I-beams (at centroid), channels (outside the web–flange junction line), angles (outside the section).



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Any single statement alone is correct but incomplete; the comprehensive answer is that all apply.


Common Pitfalls:
Equating shear centre with centroid for all sections; ignoring twist when loads are applied off the shear centre in open sections.



Final Answer:
All the above.

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