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Highlights • Full-scale angle-encased CFST members under axial tension are investigated experimentally and numerically. • Load-transfer mechanism between components is assessed. • Component interactions that help to achieve high tensile performance are evaluated. • Design method based on load-transfer mechanism and component interactions is proposed. Abstract Load-transfer mechanism of concrete-filled steel tubes (CFSTs) with encased built-up angles under concentric tension is assessed experimentally and numerically in this paper. Seven full-scale angle-encased CFST test specimens with the length of 4000 mm were tested. The test parameters were the diameter-to-thickness ratio (D / T), connecting type, and configuration of encased-angles. Finite element analyses (FEA) were performed to further investigate the tensile behaviour of the composite members. The load distribution, load-transfer mechanism, and interactions between components, i.e. the tube, inner concrete, and encased-angles, were extensively evaluated. All these components could synergistically work under axial tension, though the encased angles were disconnected from the endplates. The strength of the angles could be effectively used through the load-transfer from the concrete, owing to the interactions between each component. In addition, the connecting types exerted minor effects on the ultimate tensile strength despite the existence of an insufficient confining region within the connecting area. The tensile strength design method was proposed for the angle-encased CFST member, based on experimental and numerical analyses on the load-transfer mechanism and component interactions. The comparisons between the calculated predictions and the results from the tests and simulations demonstrated the proposed design method was accurate and reliable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]