Stability behavior of thin-walled corner columns with double-cavity open section in modular folding aluminum houses subjected to axial loads

Modular folding aluminum houses (MFAHs) are a new type of modular buildings. Considering building functional requirements, an MFAH was composed of thin-walled corner columns with double-cavity open sections (TWCCs). However, relevant study of the axial compressive behavior of TWCCs was insufficient. Therefore, this study investigated the stability behavior of TWCCs subjected to axial loads. A refined finite element model (FEM) was established, and its results were compared with experimental results, which were in good agreement. Subsequently, a parametric analysis was conducted. The applicability of the existing specifications to calculate the stability resistance of TWCCs was further assessed. Finally, a modified formula was proposed for accurately predicting the axial stability resistance of the TWCCs. The results will be useful in the design and application of MFAHs.