Bearing capacity investigation of pin-ended composite columns with eccentricity loading using finite element simulation

In this paper, a complete non-linear finite element model that could represent the behaviour of the composite columns tested under axial compression in the laboratory was developed. A numerical analyses study was presented based on experimental results for investigating the effects of introducing column head on the structural behaviour of 10 finite element models of fully encased composite columns with embedded I-beam. Effects of parameters such as length of composite columns and loading condition on the ultimate load capacity have been examined. It was observed that the whole section-loaded models shows greater load carrying capacity compared with the core loaded models due to the effect of column head implies that load condition has an influence on the behaviour and strength of the composite columns moreover, it is suggested that the finite element models were able to simulate various loading conditions, with very good accuracy.