Results of an experimental and numerical study on rib reinforced square cross-section thin wall extruded aluminium tubes formed by TIG welding process subjected to axial compression are presented in this paper. The distance between the ribs plays a vital role in modifying the energy absorption capacity of structure. Ribs assist the formation of more number of plastic hinges. As the rate of loading increases, the mean crushing force and energy absorption also increases for the same axial crushing distance. Results of the numerical study were found to be within 5-8% variation with the experimental results. Copyright © 2014 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.