A numerical investigation of local–overall interaction buckling of stainless steel lipped channel columns

A detailed finite element (FE) model is presented, which was developed with the aim of studying the interaction of local and overall buckling in stainless steel columns. The model incorporates non-linear stress–strain behaviour, anisotropy, enhanced corner properties and initial imperfections. The model was verified against a program of 29 laboratory tests on stainless steel lipped channels, described in a companion paper [Becque J, Rasmussen KJR. Experimental investigation of the interaction of local and overall buckling of stainless steel lipped channel columns. Journal of Constructional Steel Research 2009; 65(8–9): 1677–84] and yielded excellent predictions of ultimate strength and specimen behaviour.The FE model was further used in parametric studies, varying both the cross-sectional slenderness and the overall slenderness. Three stainless steel alloys were considered: AISI304, AISI430 and 3Cr12. The results are compared with the governing design rules of the Australian, North American and European standards for stainless steel structures.