Finite element analysis and design of fixed-ended plain channel columns

A finite element analysis and design of fixed-ended cold-formed plain channel columns is presented in this paper. A non-linear finite element model is developed and verified against experimental results. Geometric and material non-linearities were included in the finite element model. A sensitivity analysis on geometric imperfections of the plain channel columns was performed. It was shown that the finite element model closely predicted the ultimate loads and failure modes of the tested columns. Hence, the model was used for an extensive parametric study of cross-section geometries. The column strengths predicted by the finite element analysis are compared with the design column strengths calculated using the Australian/New Zealand, American and European specifications for cold-formed steel structures. It is shown that the design strengths calculated from the three specifications are generally conservative for fixed-ended plain channel columns. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved