Non-destructive prediction of buckling load of axially compressed cylindrical shells using Least Resistance Path to Probing

Stability properties of localized states is of great significance in the determination of nonlinear buckling characteristics of an axially loaded cylindrical shell. We have analyzed these localized states with the help of carefully carried out experiments by using an external poker. The focus of this study is on assessing the practical feasibility for obtaining the peak load carrying capacity of an imperfect (near perfect) cylindrical shell, for which no prior knowledge of the location of dominant defect is present. Three different methods are attempted: Method 1-Probing at a single arbitrary location, Method 2 - Probing at multiple locations, Method 3-Probing at multiple locations to find the Least Resistant Path (LRP). The results indicate that the determination of LRP and hence the location which corresponds to the least energy barrier can significantly improve the efficacy of the probing procedure.

Automated summary

The study aims to evaluate the practical feasibility of obtaining the maximum load carrying capacity of imperfect cylindrical shells without prior knowledge of the main defect location. By attempting three different methods, the results indicate that determining the Least Resistant Path and the corresponding location with the least energy barrier can significantly improve the effectiveness of the probing process.