EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION OF CIRCULAR ALUMINUM COLUMNS ENHANCED

Abstract

In structural engineering, introducing an efficient structural elements with high ratio of
strength or ductility to weight is a challenge. This paper is presenting and developing
aluminum columns having circular hollow section strengthened with CFRP possess the
highest specific (divided - by weight) mechanical properties to be advantageous in lightweight
and space limited structures. The structural performance of these columns was investigated
experimentally by using different strengthening orient styles and CFRP piling layers. The
column specimens were subjected to uniform axial compression. The strength, ductility, axial
load- shortening displacement relationships, lateral strains, and failure modes of columns
were presented. Designing guideline empirical equations were derived from experimental
results, the predicted unfactored strengths are found to be in a good agreement with the
experimental values.