Linear Elastic Behavior of Circular Holed Steel Box Sections Under Compression

The aim of this work is to provide insights into the linear elastic behavior of steel box sections with centered and eccentric holes, placed at various points on the sides and at the corners of sections, and subjected to uniform compression. The influence of the following parameters was observed on stability, mainly through critical deformed shapes: (a) ratio of section aspects, (b) length-to-width ratio, (c) slenderness of sides, (d) diameter of holes, (e) coordinates x and y of the position of the hole on one side of the box section. Indications regarding important design aspects are given: (a) the best location for a single hole, or several holes, in cross-section; (b) the effects of circular holes with small, medium and large diameters on the linear buckling factor; (c) the effect of symmetric and eccentric holes for purposes of stability; (d) the best performing transversal section for square to rectangular holed box sections, in terms of stability; (e) critical slenderness values at which transition occurs from ultimate strength collapse of stocky box sections and critical elastic stress of slender ones.