K-factor for columns in any type of construction: nonparadoxical approach

Simple closed-form formulas are presented that evaluate the slenderness K-factor for columns in construction types 1, 2, or 3, with sidesway uninhibited, partially inhibited, and totally inhibited. The formulas are also applied to the stability of frames (unbraced, partially braced, and totally braced) with rigid, semirigid and simple connections. The proposed formulas are more general and simpler to apply than the well-known alignment charts and the results are within 2.5% and 1% of the theoretical values of the braced and unbraced cases, respectively. Simple criteria are proposed that define the concepts of partially braced columns and minimum amount of diagonal bracing (truss bracing) in bent frames. Various examples are presented in detail that demonstrate the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed formulas.