How Tall Can a 273.1 x 12.7 CHS Steel Column Reach with Lateral Support?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the structural capacity of a 273.1 x 12.7 CHS steel column with lateral support. It suggests that with proper lateral support every meter, the column could theoretically reach a height of approximately 3.9 kilometers without buckling. However, the weight of the tubing limits its self-supporting height to about 2.5 kilometers due to webbing effects, which could be minimized with larger diameters. The author seeks collaboration for finite element analysis to explore practical applications, including uses in construction and earthquake-resistant designs. The conversation also touches on the potential for creating self-braced lattice structures similar to those used in cranes and transmission towers.
davidratcliff6255
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I have recently came across design capacity tables for structural steel (hollow sections). - In the table it shows that 273.1 x 12.7 CHS will not buckle at 1 metre of height (below that, size 219.1 x 12.7 at the same height will buckle at 10 kN less than full capacity if it were fully supported)... So if a continuous vertical length of size 273.1 x 12.7 tubing were laterally supported every 1 metre, the tubing should reach full height of around 3.9 km, right?

I have figured out the webbing method of that size tubing to be around 35% extra (self supported) weight... so works out to be somewhere around 2.5 km total height before it will squash from its own weight. - Smaller diamater = more webbing, larger diamater = less webbing. So if a large enough diamater were used you could probably get the webbing down to around 10% of the weight of the tubing... So around 3.5 km uniform section.

I am seeking input from anyone with access to (FE) computer analysis program who would be interested in doing a test with me. If I am right then the system could be used for anything from a yacht/ship mast to an, earthquake proofing, highrise building "spine" system... which could also double as the crane used for heavy lifting during construction. With a couple of simple changes can also be used for bridges.

Regards,
Dave
 
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If you extend your concept a little further you will put holes in the webs and create what is a self braced lattice column or tower, as is used for construction cranes, electricity transmission pylons and communication towers.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tokyo_Skytree
 
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