The response of aluminum beams subjected to concentrated loading is investi
gated experimentally through a series of 52 tests. Three different aluminum
alloy AA6082-T6 extrusions are included in the test program: one double T
section and two square hollow sections with different wall thicknesses (SHS
-3 and SHS-5). These profiles were tested as simply supported beams loaded
either at the midspan or at the end supports. The results show that web thi
ckness, flange stiffness, beam span, and overhang are important factors tha
t influence the capacity. In addition, the influence of applying the concen
trated load through a circular or rectangular bar was investigated for the
SHS-5 extrusion, and for all cases where bending was limited, the circular
bar loading significantly increased the capacity. The beams were rotated sy
stematically about the longitudinal axis in order to investigate the influe
nce of loading the specimens on their different sides, and the effect was m
easured in the range of 3.2-11.4% of the mean values for each cross section
and loading case. Furthermore, comprehensive measurements of the material
properties and the initial geometry, including geometrical imperfections, w
ere important for investigation of the influence of material and geometry v
ariations on the member response.