The analysis report summarizes results from the first research phase focused on extending the Direct Strength Method to cold-formed steel members with holes. The primary goal of the report is to use existing test data coupled with finite element analysis to develop design procedures for conventional members with holes using the Direct Strength Method (DSM) creating buckling of plates then analyzed by Super element method in program Fortran IV.
Similarly the report presents a study which evaluates the effects of a slotted hole and a circular hole on the elastic buckling characteristics of intermediate length compression members. The finite element results are compared to the “un stiffened element” approximation for predicting the local buckling strength of cold-formed steel members with holes.
The report provides a detailed comparison of the tested strengths of cold-formed steel stub columns and long columns specimens with holes to the predicted strengths determined using finite element analysis and the DSM.