Education and Career Forum

what is difference between braced and unbraced columns?

There are different members of a structural system like column, footing, slab etc.

About columns:

Columns are vertical members of structural system that extends from foundation to terrace of structural system.

Difference between braced and unbraced column:

1. If lateral stability of a structural system is supported by bracing or walls then columns in that plane are considered to be braced column whereas if structural system is supported by columns then it is unbraced.

2. Unbraced columns are designed in such a manner that it can resist lateral load but braced columns can not resist lateral loads.

3. Braced columns have zero value of sway whereas unbraced columns are subjected to some value of sway.

What is the difference between braced and unbraced RC walls ? Is shear wall consider as unbraced wall ?