Cambering steel beams

Abstract

The term camber generally applies to the curve about the strong axis of the member. This paper deals primarily with camber. The camber process as applied to steel beams can be expressed as: 'the pre-deforming of a member so that, in a loaded state, it more nearly approximates its theoretical presumed shape.' Natural mill camber is the out-of-straightness remaining after the initial rolling, cooling, and straightening of the member at the mill. Tolerances for natural mill camber are listed in the AISC Manual of Steel Construction. Induced camber is that which is applied subsequent to the initial rolling and straightening process. Induced cambering can be done at either the rolling mill or the fabricating shop. Tolerances for induced camber are also listed in the AISC Manual of Steel Construction.