Nonlinear buckling and post-buckling analysis of imperfect cylindrical shells subjected to axial compressive load

Abstract

Imperfection sensitivity of cylindrical shells subjected to axial compressive load is investigated by means of nonlinear buckling analysis and post-buckling analysis. Nonlinear buckling analysis involves the determination of the equilibrium path (or load-deflection curve) upto the limit point load by using the Newton-Raphson approach, whereas post-buckling analysis involves the determination of the equilibrium path beyond the limit point and upto the collapse load by using the arc-length approach. Limit point loads evaluated from these two approaches for various imperfection magnitudes show an excellent agreement, which clearly confirms the numerical results obtained. Finally, the influence of L/D and R/t ratios on post-buckling behavior of isotropic and composite cylindrical shells is briefly highlighted.