Compressive behavior of built-up H-section columns fabricated using H-SA700 steel: Experiment, numerical simulation and design method.

This paper provides an experimental and numerical investigation into the compressive behavior of built-up H-section columns fabricated using H-SA700 steel. First of all, axial compression tests were performed on nine built-up specimens. Secondly, the 3D solid finite element (FE) models were constructed using ABAQUS, and their accuracy was verified by the experimental results. And then, the effects of slenderness ratio, web height-to-thickness ratio, flange width-to-thickness ratio, channel thickness, transverse bolt pitch, bolt diameter, and longitudinal bolt pitch on the compressive strength and buckling deformation of built-up members were analyzed. Finally, the applicability of the column curves from GB 50017–2017, EN 1993-1-1, and ANSI/AISC 360–16 for H-SA700 built-up columns were assessed, and the design curves were modified. The results indicated that slenderness ratio and channel thickness were the main parameters affecting the bearing capacity of built-up members. The design curves of current codes all underestimated the compressive strength of built-up columns around the weak axis under axial loading. In addition, modified column curves could provide a conservative design for built-up H-section columns. • Nine built-up H-section columns were tested under axial loading. • Finite element models applicable for built-up H-section columns were established. • The effects of six key parameters on the compressive behavior of built-up columns were analyzed. • The applicability of the design curves of the current code for H-SA700 built-up H-section columns was assessed, and the design curves were modified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]