This one really is simple... i think

[KetanLobo]

Many thanks to those who gave me input on my other question.

My new question is... what is the compressive strength of steel?

is it the same as the tensile strength? or critical compressive stress?

none of my textbooks list this value, and the really the only value i can find online on compressive strength is for concrete...

hit me with your best shot

[cyclone]

In general, the tensile strength of steel is equivalent to its compressive strength. That is, steel responds to stretching force in much the same way it responds to crushing force

The tensile strength of a steel that can withstand 40,000 pounds of force per square inch may be expressed as 40,000 PSI or 40 KSI

[FredGarvin]

For the most part, they are pretty close if not the same. Off the top of my head, one that comes to mind that is not the same but pretty close is 4140. It's compressive yield is slightly higher (about 10%) than it's tensile yield.