This topical book contains the latest scientific and engineering developments in the field of tubular steel structures, as presented at the "11th International Symposium and IIW International Conference on Tubular Structures". The International Symposium on Tubular Structures (ISTS) has a long-standing reputation for being the principal showcase for manufactured tubing and the prime international forum for discussion of research, developments and applications in this field.

Various key and emerging subjects in the field of hollow structural sections are covered, such as: novel applications and case studies, static and fatigue behaviour of connections/joints, concrete-filled and composite tubular members, earthquake resistance, specification and code developments, material properties and structural reliability, impact resistance and brittle fracture, fire resistance, casting and fabrication innovations. Research and development issues presented in this book are applicable to buildings, bridges, offshore structures, entertainment rides, cranes, towers and various mechanical and agricultural equipment. This book is thus a pertinent reference source for architects, civil and mechanical engineers, designers, steel fabricators and contractors, manufacturers of hollow sections or related construction products, trade associations involved with tubing, owners or developers of tubular structures, steel specification committees, academics and research students.

The conference presentations herein include two keynote lectures (the International Institute of Welding Houdremont Lecture and the ISTS Kurobane Lecture), plus finalists in the CIDECT Student Papers Competition. The 11th International Symposium and IIW International Conference on Tubular Structures – ISTS11 – took place in Québec City, Canada from August 31 to September 2, 2006.