Experimental research on concrete filled steel tube columns under combined compression-bending-torsion cyclic load

Based on the force–displacement mixed control quasi-static test on eight CFST columns subjected to combined compression, bending and torsion cyclic load, the mechanical behavior of CFST columns with various section types, bending moment to torsion moment ratios and axial load levels was studied. The test results showed that the hysteretic curves of CFST columns under combined compression, flexure and torsion are plump due to the good seismic behavior and the ductility was also good. But for rectangular CFST columns with high bending moment to torsion moment ratio, the strength degradation was observed due to the local buckling of the steel plate at the bottom. The torsion capacity of CFST columns would be reduced by the bending moment. The plane section assumption of axial strain of CFST columns could be satisfied. The shear strain of the steel tube has good linear relationship with the rotation angle of the section when CFST columns subjected to combined compression, flexure and torsion. Based on the test results and literatures available, the mechanism of CFST columns was qualitatively analyzed.

► The test on CFST under compression-bending-torsion cyclic load was carried out.
► The failure modes and strain state of CFST columns under cyclic torsion were found.
► The torsion mechanism of CFST columns was analyzed based on the test results.