Aluminium alloy channel columns: Testing, numerical modelling and design

Aluminium alloys can be employed in a wide range of structural applications offering high strength-to-weight ratio, whilst they easily extruded various shapes. Channel (C-) sections have been increasingly as compression members, such wall studs and chord members roof trusses framed residential commercial buildings. However, relevant studies on their compressive behaviour are quite limited thus greater emphasis should placed providing deeper understanding. Towards this direction, paper examines the performance C-sections under axial compression. An experimental numerical investigation was performed 6082-T6 heat-treated aluminium alloy C-section columns. In total, 6 fix-ended stub column tests were executed to examine cross-sectional behaviour, 8 pin-ended conducted study minor-axis flexural buckling behaviour. The obtained results utilised validate developed finite element models. Subsequently, extensive parametric carried out generate additional data over broad aspect ratios, member slendernesses. Both experimentally numerically ultimate strengths assess accuracy Eurocode 9 design provisions, including curve. On basis results, new curve is proposed improving accuracy. applicability Direct Strength Method subjected also evaluated resulting most accurate consistent strength predictions. • Compressive investigated. reported. A out. provisions assessed. evaluated. proposed.