Study on Buckling Behaviour of Cold-Formed Steel Z-Section with Different Stiffeners

Cold formed steel sections are widely used as structural elements in India. These steel members are extensively used in the building construction industry, especially in residential, commercial and industrial buildings. This paper presents the study on buckling behaviour of cold-formed steel Z-section with both edge and intermediate stiffener. This study involves the experimental investigation of cold-formed Z-section columns and beams. Totally four Z-section specimens were tested, two columns and two beams. The specimen dimensions were framed in accordance with Indian Standard code IS:801-1975. The Z-section beams were tested under two point Loading condition whereas the columns were tested under axial compression loading. This study reveals that the cold-formed Z-section columns and beams with both the edge and intermediate stiffener performed well when compared to specimen with only intermediate stiffener. The Z-section with both the stiffeners showed high ultimate load bearing capacity and smaller deflection than Z-section specimens with only intermediate stiffener.