A comparative study on stub columns with various steel grades subjected to concentric axial loading

In this study, various structural steels were evaluated to determine whether they satisfy the standards for compression members. Also, stub columns subjected to concentric axial loads were tested to check the applicability of the current design criteria to SM570TMC steel. The variables in the test were the plate-edge restraint and the width-to-thickness ratio. Specimens included 5 box-section and 10 H-section specimens, and were designed to meet the noncompact section. Coupon test results showed that yield strength and tensile strength were the higher than nominal strength, and one specimen was reclassified as a slender section. All specimens except the one specimen reclassified as a slender section satisfied with the strength demanded by the design criteria. The strength reduction factor curve of the investigated specimens showed that most of the specimens satisfied the current design criteria, but some specimens did not reach the required strength because of the uncertainty of material.