Classification of I- or H-shaped cross-sections under mixed internal actions

Section classification is a key point in most of the currently available steel standards. However, several aspects of section classification need to be clarified for a proper application in the general context of three-dimensional structures. This paper presents a new method useful for classifying I-shaped cross-sections subjected to tension or compression plus biaxial bending. The method can be generalised to any kind of section and standard and could lead to design maps that are very useful for evaluating member behaviour.