Tension members are structural elements that are subjected to axial tensile forces. They
are used in various types of structures and include truss members, bracing for buildings
and bridges, cables in suspended roof systems, and cables in suspension and cable-stayed
bridges. Any cross-sectional configuration may be used, because for any given material,
the only determinant of the strength of a tension member is the cross-sectional area.
Circular rods and rolled angle shapes are frequently used. Built-up shapes, either from
plates, rolled shapes, or a combination of plates and rolled shapes, are sometimes used
when large loads must be resisted. The most common built-up configuration is probably
the double-angle section, shown in Figure 3.1, along with other typical cross sections.
Because the use of this section is so widespread, tables of properties of various
combinations of angles are included in the AISC Steel Construction Manual.
