Buckling of Steel Columns at Elevated Temperatures

The buckling loads for pin-ended steel columns subjected to a uniform temperature increase along the length of the member are determined. The column cross sections investigated include: rolled wide flange shapes, welded I-sections, and welded box sections. The effects of residual stress and the influence of temperature on the material properties on the buckling strength in both the elastic and inelastic range are considered. Results are presented in the form of column curves and simple formulas relating the column strength at elevated temperature to that at room temperature. Comparisons of the results obtained in the study with current design provisions are also made.