Post-buckling behaviours of axially restrained steel columns in fire

This paper presents a simplified model to study post-buckling behaviours of the axially restrained steel column at elevated temperatures in fire. The contribution of axial deformation to the curvature of column section is included in theoretical equations. The possible unloading at the convex side of the column when buckling occurs is considered in the stress-strain relationship of steel at elevated temperatures. Parameters that affect structural behaviours of the axial restrained column in fire are studied. The axial restraint cause an increase in the axial force before the column buckles; the buckling temperature of restrained columns will be lower than non-restrained steel columns. However, the axial force of a restrained column decreases after the column buckles with the elevation of temperatures, so make use of the post-buckling behaviour can increase the critical temperature of restrained columns. Columns with temperature gradient across the section will produce lower axial force at elevated temperatures.