ABSTRACT
This paper describes numerical and experimental tests to study the collapse behaviour of aluminium complex section. The beams of different length were loaded up in two-point bending configuration. Load-flexural stiffness graphs were recorded and the observed collapse mechanisms were noted. Measurements of the flexural stiffness show that the section remains in the elastic range although one observes the appearance of a local buckling in the form of undulation (elastic buckling). The failure occurs by flange instability of the part compressed. This confirms impossibility for this type of section of leading a plastic design because of premature buckling of the panels. The ultimate loads obtained on the basis of tests are compared with the results of numerical analysis using Abaqus software version 6.3.
