ABSTRACT
Many studies have shown the effect of initial geometric imperfections on the elastic and inelastic bending response of hollow metal sections. This paper presents initial results of a project taking detailed measurements of imperfection profiles of cold-formed steel hollow sections. Specifically, the longitudinal variation of the local imperfections of the cross sections were measured. Precise laser measurement techniques are described and imperfection profiles given. The measurements were taken on plain sections, and then after plates were welded onto the sections in preparation for a bending test. The profiles will give important information relating to the type of imperfections that should be considered when performing finite element analyses.
