ABSTRACT
Experimental investigations was conducted using system ARAMIS, which is based on modern optical deformation analysis. Beams of different cross-sections was subjected to static four-point bending. The critical and limit loads of beams were determined. The aforementioned optical method makes it possible to determine the distribution of displacements on the whole surfaces, e.g. flange or web, and not only in some points like in the methods using strain gauges. Therefore, local and distorsional buckling modes and corresponding critical loads can be clearly and accurately identified. Moreover, because this is a non-contact method, the mechanism of collapsing a beam can be deeply investigated.
