Computer Modeling of Local-Overall Interactive Buckling on Cut-T Struts

In order to study the interactive action of local and overall buckling, a test program of cut-t struts was performed. Based on that, a nonlinear finite element model for interaction between local and overall buckling on singly symmetric section is made by using the general finite element software ANSYS. In the model, factors such as initial imperfections, geometric and material nonlinearity are considered. By comparison of theoretical results, experimental and calculated results using different element type, it was shown that the phenomenon of interactive buckling is evident. The distortional buckling and local buckling should be taken into account when overall buckling is under analysis. These three buckling are not suitable to study separately. The thin-walled struts, which were designed under the principle of equal-stability, are sensitive to the initial imperfection. Some conclusions, which are useful for construction design, are also introduced.