Global buckling of thin-walled simply supported columns: Numerical studies

In this paper numerical studies on global buckling of thin-walled members are presented. Various methods are used including classical analytical solutions, the semi-analytical finite strip method, the generalized beam theory, shell finite element method and the recently derived shell-model-based analytical formulae. Critical forces are calculated for flexural, pure torsional and flexural–torsional buckling of columns with various thin-walled cross-sections, the results are compared to each other and conclusions are drawn. As it is proved by the studies, the various methods yield similar results in many cases, but significant differences sometimes occur. The differences in the critical forces are due to various factors, these factors are fully explored and illustrated. Guidance is also given on how to minimize the differences between the various methods.

► Numerical studies on global buckling of thin-walled columns are carried out.
► Various calculation methods and options are applied.
► Critical forces are calculated for various modes and cross-sections.
► Differences between the various methods are demonstrated and explained.