This dataset contains experimental, geometric measurement, CAD geometry, and finite element analysis data obtained in an experimental–numerical investigation of axially compressed back-to-back cold-formed steel columns with modified flange geometries.
The study considered three 1000-mm-long screw-connected column configurations, designated 2T1, 2T2, and 2T3, manufactured from 0.5-mm-thick DX51 steel sheet. The 2T1 section, formed from conventional lipped channels, was used as the reference configuration, while the 2T2 and 2T3 sections incorporated progressively modified box-shaped flange geometries.
The experimental data originate from axial compression tests and include force–column shortening responses and transverse web-displacement measurements used to determine the critical and maximum axial forces. Initial geometric imperfections were characterised using two complementary techniques. Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) measurements were performed at eight transverse sections along each column and were used to determine the imperfection amplitudes adopted in the LBA-based finite element models. In addition, the individual channel sections were measured using optical 3D scanning. The acquired geometry was subsequently processed to reconstruct surface CAD models representing the as-manufactured shape of the profiles.
The numerical data correspond to geometrically and materially nonlinear finite element analyses performed in ANSYS. Two approaches to geometric imperfection modelling are represented in the dataset: nominal-geometry models incorporating an initial imperfection field obtained by superposition of the first three linear buckling analysis (LBA) modes, and scan-based models constructed from the reconstructed geometry of the physical channel sections. The numerical results enable comparison of the predicted critical forces, maximum axial forces, force–shortening responses, and buckling and post-buckling deformation patterns.
The dataset is organised around the three investigated cross-sections (2T1, 2T2, and 2T3) and the two numerical modelling approaches (LBA-based and scan-based). It includes experimental and geometric measurement data, numerical results, and reconstructed CAD geometries provided in STL (.stl) format to facilitate reuse in different CAD and finite element software environments.
For further details, please consult the readme.txt file.
(2026-10)
