Difference Between Limit State Method and Working Stresses Method
In the context of structural engineering, the Limit State Method (LSM) and the Working Stress Method (WSM) are two different approaches to design that are defined by the Indian Standard (IS) codes.
The Working
Stress Method (WSM) is an older approach to design that was widely used in
India until the 1980s. It is based on the concept that a structure is safe as
long as the stresses produced in the structure under the working loads are
below a certain limit known as the allowable stress. The allowable stress is
calculated by dividing the ultimate strength of the material by a factor of
safety. The factor of safety is a value that is used to ensure that the
structure is safe even if there are uncertainties in the design and construction
process.
The Limit
State Method (LSM) is a more recent approach to design that was introduced in
the 1980s. It is based on the concept that a structure is safe as long as it
satisfies certain limit states, which are conditions in which the structure is no
longer able to perform its intended function. The limit states are defined
based on the performance requirements of the structure and the possible failure
modes that may occur. The design is carried out by ensuring that the
probability of failure under the limit states is very low.