Abstract:

The present paper deals with enhanced learning of buckling phenomenon in engineering structures during laboratory works in engineering courses.
Compressed elements are one of basic elements composing civil engineering structures. Loss of their functionality occurs due to large deflections and axial compression forces that are closer to buckling loads. Compressed structural elements are used as two types: columns with sway ends and non-sway columns. The buckling forces for these two types are different in several times. The end fixing conditions are different from ideal rigid and pinned due to flexibility of adjacent beams and joint connections.
The aim of laboratory test in civil engineering design courses is enhanced learning the buckling effect in compressed elements in consideration of their functionality in real engineering structures. For implementation of this test the testbed system is created and allows testing columns in sway and non-sway modes with various end conditions (such us rigid, pinned, semi-rigid) simulating a flexibility of joint connections and connected beams.
Method of determination of critical force by results of tests is developed taking into account an error assessment of approximating calculation model.
The procedure of laboratory work allows in a limited lesson time to perform 18 experiments describing buckling effect and its specific features in real building structures.

Keywords:

Engineering education, laboratory courses, buckling.