Investigation on Residual Mechanical Properties of Galvanized Iron Cold-Formed Steel Sections Exposed to Elevated Temperatures

Cold-formed steel (CFS) sections are used to construct medium and low-rise structures designed to carry small-scale loads. CFS sections are manufactured without the application of heat. Therefore, it is crucial to comprehend the properties of CFS sections which are exposed to fire or elevated temperatures. To simulate the real- time fire exposure, an ISO Standard fire curve was used to heat the CFS sections. The objective of the study is to assess the residual mechanical strength of exposed sections after the elevated temperature test. The study aims to compile data for forecasting the degeneration of elements and to ascertain whether the structural components can be reused or replaced. The CFS sections were subjected to different temperatures, and after heating, two cooling methods were used to bring down to room temperature. The characteristics of the retrieved specimens, taken from exposed CFS sections were assessed using a tensile coupon test. The residual properties such as ultimate strength, yield strength, and elastic modulus were examined and reported. The influence of heating and cooling is more pronounced from the test results. A reduction in the yield and ultimate strength was noticed, and it was found to decrease as the heating intensity increases for air and water cooling respectively. In the case of yield and ultimate strength, the strength reduction is critical beyond 60 minutes. The elastic modulus was also found to be reducing with a similar trend. Based on the test results, reduction factors are proposed for ultimate strength, yield strength and elastic modulus. Reduction factors obtained for yield strength under 60 minutes of heating for air and water cooling is 0.575 and 0.557 respectively. In 120 minutes, the values are 0.400 and 0.329. Reduction factors obtained for ultimate strength under 60 minutes of heating for air and water cooling is 0.586 and 0.566 respectively. For 120 minutes, the values are 0.331 and 0.313.