ABSTRACT
The European code defines four classes, as follows: ductile cross-sections; compact cross-sections; semi-compact cross-sections; and slender cross-sections. In general, different compression elements in a cross-section can belong to different classes. According to Eurocode 3 provisions, the resistance of the cross-section shall be calculated using the average yield strength when the section is fully effective and the basic yield strength when local buckling reduces the resistance of any compression element of the section. The design of compression elements with edge or intermediate stiffeners requires a double-step procedure. Differently from the case of axial compression, the strain or stress distribution in the case of bending cannot be defined a priori. The computer program, therefore, performs an iterative procedure. The effects of local buckling are taken into account by using effective section properties.
