Abstract
This research employed ANSYS 17 finite element analysis software to numerically consider the investigation of the buckling behavior of columns made from square hollow sections (SHS) composed of aluminum alloy. A validated modeling with nonlinear finite elements was created through column pin-ended tests. The column samples were manufactured using heat-treated aluminum alloys of 7A04-T6. In the finite element model, geometric and material non-linearities were accounted for. Its accuracy was validated through a comparison of the model's results with experimental conditions. A thorough parametric analysis was carried out to explore the impact of fillet radii, cross-sectional slenderness, meshing size, and member slenderness on the stability of columns. The research juxtaposed experimental and numerical results with design strength parameters from various codes, including Chinese, European, American, and Australian/New Zealand standards. Additionally, alternative design approaches such as the direct strength technique and continuous strength method were considered for comparison. The test results indicated that the Direct Strength Method (DSM), Australian/New Zealand Standard (AUS/NZS), and Continuous Strength Method (CSM) overestimated the actual strength of the columns by 57.73%, 18.34%, and 15.21%, respectively. Conversely, the European, Chinese, and American codes underestimated the strength by 23.60%, 17.40%, and 9%, respectively. Upon examining the numerical data, it was evident that the actual strength of the columns was underestimated by 47.48%, 10.99%, and 7.99% when employing the Direct Strength Method (DSM), Australian/New Zealand Standard (AUS/NZS), and Continuous Strength Method (CSM), respectively. Similarly, the European (EN), Chinese (GB), and American (AA) methods underestimated the strength by 32.80%, 24.30%, and 15.70%, respectively. The majority of existing design guidelines and approaches tend to be conservative in forecasting the ultimate strength of columns made of 7A04-T6 aluminum alloy under eccentric stress. To improve accuracy, a modified formula predicated on the Eurocode was suggested, adjusting various factors for more precise predictions of the ultimate strength of columns made of 7A04-T6 aluminum alloy.