Numerical Investigation of the Axially Compressive Behavior of Circular Concrete Encased Steel Composite (CESC) Columns

Abstract

This research presents a numerical investigation of circular Concrete Encased Steel Composite (CESC) columns. To simulate the circular CESC columns under axial compression in the previous tests, a Finite Element Model (FEM) with some modifications of material models for the steel and concrete was established in ABAQUS software. The curves of load versus longitudinal displacement and the ultimate loads obtained from the FEM were compared with those measured in previous tests. The numerical results agreed well with the test results. Furthermore, the distribution of the stresses on the cross-section at different heights and the effect of initial imperfections were observed by the FEM results. A highly confined concrete zone enclosed by steel web and steel flanges was observed. Finally, the established FEM was used in the parametric study that investigated the influence of concrete strength, steel yield strength, and spacing of the spiral hoops.

Keywords

• FEM
• ABAQUS
• concrete
• steel
• composite columns