Author(s): Lukas Reinhardt, Hannah Vogel and Matthias Keller

Abstract: Hollow steel sections have gained increasing attention in structural engineering due to their favorable strength-to-weight ratio, geometric efficiency, and potential for cost reduction in infrastructure development. In low-cost infrastructure projects, particularly in developing regions, material optimization and construction efficiency are critical for achieving structural safety while minimizing expenditure. Hollow steel sections, including circular, square, and rectangular profiles, offer enhanced load-bearing capacity, improved torsional resistance, and uniform stress distribution compared to traditional open sections. Their closed geometry contributes to reduced material usage without compromising stiffness or durability. Additionally, these sections exhibit superior performance under axial compression, bending, and combined loading, which is essential for bridges, industrial sheds, low-rise buildings, and rural infrastructure. The adoption of hollow steel sections also facilitates prefabrication, faster construction, and reduced labor costs, aligning well with the objectives of affordable and rapid infrastructure delivery. However, challenges such as local buckling, connection detailing, fabrication complexity, and limited awareness among practitioners can hinder widespread implementation. This research synthesizes existing research on the structural behavior, design efficiency, and economic viability of hollow steel sections in the context of low-cost infrastructure. Emphasis is placed on comparative performance with conventional steel sections, code-based design considerations, and implications for sustainability. By consolidating experimental findings, analytical studies, and practical applications, the paper aims to highlight the suitability of hollow steel sections as a structurally efficient and economically viable solution. The analysis supports the hypothesis that optimized use of hollow steel sections can significantly enhance structural efficiency while reducing overall project costs, thereby contributing to resilient and affordable infrastructure development. The findings are expected to assist engineers, planners, and policymakers in making informed material selection decisions for cost-sensitive construction projects, promoting wider adoption of efficient steel systems in emerging economies and resource-constrained environments worldwide.

DOI: 10.22271/27078280.2026.v7.i1a.65

Pages: 47-51 | Views: 1 | Downloads: 1

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