Fire safety of rectangular hollow section (RHS) truss members with local imperfections

Abstract

This project investigates the effect of local imperfections on RHS truss members at elevated temperatures. The specific model used represents a realistic example of a RHS practical application and shows that local imperfections can have a detrimental effect on overall compressive resistance. Modelling showed that above 400C, a member with a local imperfection will experience global buckling and failure significantly quicker than a member without. In consequence, this paper concludes that all slender RHS members that are defined as a key element should be given suitable fire protection.