Shear design of composite columns with sheet metal sections

Composite columns offer an efficient solution for vertical elements in high-rise buildings through high load bearing capacities and fire safety. Until now, such sections have been constructed with either rolled or solid profiles as core element. Residual stresses of such core profiles often cause inefficient use of material due to the reduction of yield strengths. This paper presents a new form of composite columns consisting of metal sheets as core profile with optimized shear connection. Advantages are expected from a reduction of residual stresses due to smaller thicknesses of each partial core as well as adjustable flexural rigidity settings, as shear connecting elements can be installed locally where needed. Deployment of high strength steel helps increasing the bearing capacity significantly.