Buckling of Aluminum Columns: Analytical and Experimental Analysis

Comparison of experimental and theoretical buckling resistances of aluminum columns with extruded rectangular hollow profiles are done in this paper to investigate the influence of code given values of initial imperfection for buckling resistance. Experimental testing was conducted for 12 aluminum columns with four different cross-sectional dimensions. Digital image correlation system was used to measure deflection and strain over time on columns subjected to buckling at the laboratory. Theoretical analysis is performed according to Eurocode 9 and Euler’s critical buckling formula. Results from the experimental approach are compared to the theoretical predictions and average design safety factors are calculated. The theoretical approach given in Eurocode 9 provides a conservative buckling resistance. Quasi-static cyclic loading tests are also performed for two selected columns to check the reduction of the capacity due to imperfection after first elastic buckling load. Test results show that the buckling capacity is still in-line with Eurocode 9 conservative approach.