Research Needs in Stability of Metal Structures

Coverage has been given to subjects dealing with the strength and stability of columns, including biaxially loaded members and tubular components. Much information is still lacking about laterally unsupported beams, and detailed research needs are outlined for these as well as for steel building frames. A separate section discuss unresolved problems in the stability analysis of shells and shell-like structures, some of which also are pertinent to large-size tubular structures. The research needs of thin-walled, light-gage construction are discussed in one section. Extensive attention is paid to the stability aspects of plate, box and curved girders. Problems related to dynamic stability phenomena are outlined, as are the needs of composite structures. Brief data is given on needed research regrarding material properties of steels, local buckling phenomena, and the behavior of stiffened plates.