The design and structural analysis of a steel portal framed shed for the Darling Downs Historical Rail Society

Abstract

The Darling Downs Historical Rail Society (DDHRS) was given a steel portalframed shed in spare parts. The properties of the steel are unknown and need to be determined by testing. The shed needs to be redesigned according to Australian Standards to suit the needs of the DDHRS including the addition of a workshop pit and twin sets of railway lines. These modifications will allow the Society to utilise the building as a workshop for restoring old steam engines back to working order. Once restored, these trains will become a tourist attraction offering day and charter trips across the Darling Downs. Originally the steel shed was a kit shed made in America for the Second World War effort. The steel members were made by an American company called Bethlehem Steel who has since ceased to exist after declaring bankruptcy in 2001.