Exploiting the special features of stainless steel in structural design

This paper outlines a new approach to structural stainless steel design that is based on exploiting the full deformation capacity of cross-sections, by adopting a continuous method of cross-section classification and member design, coupled with more accurate material modelling. Recently generated laboratory test results are presented, and it is shown how these have been used in combination with existing test data to validate the proposed method. A comparison of the prediction of test results is made for the proposed procedure and the Eurocode approach for square and rectangular hollow section stub columns, beams and pin-ended columns failing by flexural buckling. Average design advantages of around 20-25% are achieved.