FE based mode interaction analysis of thin-walled steel box columns under axial compression

This paper presents the Finite Element (FE) analysis based mode interaction analysis of thin-walled steel box columns under axial compression. Earlier theoretical results on the optimum design of axially compressed box columns were validated through FE analysis. The study was then extended to cover factors that were previously omitted. These factors included column out-of-straightness, residual stresses and plasticity. Emphasis was given on imperfection sensitivity and its effect on optimum design.