Predictive models for strength enhancements in cold-formed structural sections

Cold-formed structural sections are manufactured at ambient temperature and hence undergo plastic deformations which result in an increase in the yield stress and ultimate stress, but reduced ductility. This paper begins with a comparative study of existing predictive models to harness this strength increase. Modifications to the existing models are then made and an improved model is presented. Tensile coupon tests from the literature have been used to validate and compare the predictive models. A wide range of structural section types from both cold-rolling and press-braking fabrication processes and structural materials, including various grades of carbon steel and stainless steel, have been considered. © 2012 Taylor & Francis Group, London.The Outokumpu Research Foundation, the Steel Construction Institute and the University of Lièg