Column Design: Past, Present, Future [N34]

The literature on column design has been studied and evaluated in the context of current specifications, analysis capabilities, steel product production and fabrication practices. Landmark breakthroughs are noted and their influence on design recommendations discussed. While much of the experimental and analytical research on column stability has improved our understanding and prediction of column strength, column design in the U.S. has essentially remained unchanged for the past 100 years. The movement toward multiple column curves has not been followed by U.S. specifications. The changes since 1970 in steel production toward higher strength steels, continuous cold straightening (rotarizing) and steel fabrication practices all have diminished the residual stress effects that drove the multiple column curve movement. Lessons learned (and not learned) in experimental methods, evaluation of test results, analytical methods and development of design recommendations for columns are emphasized. Out-of-straightness, yield strength (up to 140 ksi) and slenderness ratio continue to be the main variables affecting column strength. The recent research on columns with higher strength steels compare favorably with the AISC column design equations.

Intended Audience: Engineers, Detailers
Track: Design & Analysis

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