Abstract
This paper intends to obtain the reference data in order to make better column formulas, considering the scatter of buckling load in compressive members. In consideration of the scatter of the buckling load, we investigate the effect of random initial imperfections, which are random residual stress, random yield stress and random initial deflection thought most important, with probabilistic methods. In the first, the probability distribution of buckling loads about weak axis for rolled H-section members are made with the Monte-Carlo simulation procedure mainly. Next, we statistically deal with the result of the simulation and obtain the probability distribution function, mean value, standard deviation and coefficient of variation of the buckling load. And we considered them carefully. After all, some properties connected with the variation of buckling load in compressive members are represented definitely. Furthermore, reffering to the allowable compressive stress in Steel Structural Design Specification (A. I. J.), we point out that the factor of safety in column formula is doubtful about critical slenderness ratio.
