Stability of steel columns in case of fire: Numerical modeling

The behavior of steel columns submitted to axial compressive forces in case of fire is analyzed by means of numerical programs. Centrally loaded as well as eccentrically loaded columns are considered. A proposal is made for a buckling coefficient in case of central loading and for an interaction formula in case of eccentrical loading, based on the material properties of steel at elevated temperatures as defined in the 1995 Eurocode. The buckling coefficient comprises one scalar parameter that has to be calibrated by comparison with experimental results to ensure the appropriate safety level.