ABSTRACT
Thin-walled channel columns with non-standard cross-section shapes loaded with gradually increasing compressive force applied at the geometric centre of gravity of the cross-section were the subject of the investigations presented in this paper. The aim of the research was to determine which of the columns has the most favourable geometrical characteristics in terms of the applied load. The main investigation was an experimental study carried out using two methods: strain gauging and the optical method. Based on strain gauging, the critical forces were determined using the strain averaging method and the linear regression tangent to compression plot method. In addition, modern optical tests were performed using the ARAMIS system. The buckling forces at which the first signs of buckling appear and the buckling modes of columns were determined. The results obtained from the experimental tests were used to validate the results of numerical tests carried out using the Finite Strip Method (CuFSM). Based on this method, the values of critical forces and the percentage contribution of individual buckling forms to the loss of stability of the compressed columns were determined.
