PX PY or PZ options calculate the member loads based on the projected length of the member. I have created a simple model to explain this. In the model the member is inclinedto the global axis. Its actual length is 12.207 ft whereas the projected length along the global X is 10 ft. I have created 2 load cases, the first one with a -1kip/ft load applied using GY and a second load case where the same magnitude of load is applied using option PY.
Here is how the loads are calculated in each case
Load 1 : Load using GY
Total load applied = 1 x 12.207 = 12.207 Kip
Udl on the member = 12.2017/12.207 = 1 Kip/ft
Load 2 : Load using PY
Total load applied = 1 x 10 = 10 Kip
Udl on the member = 10/12.207 = 0.819 Kip/ft
The options will produce same result for members which are parallel to the global axis.
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