Imperfection Sensitivity of Antisymmetric Cross-Ply Cylindrical Shell Under Axial Compression Using Hui's Postbuckling Theory

Abstract

This study deals with the use of Hui's Postbuckling Theory in antisymmetric cross-ply cylindrical shell under axial compression. The Hui's postbuckling theory, also termed the Improved Koiter’s postbuckling theory was first applied to buckling of structures such as axial postbuckling of cylindrical panels and postbuckling of beams (Hui and Chen 1986, Hui 1988). In this theory, the postbuckling b coefficient, as developed by Budiansky and Hutchinson (1964) is evaluated at the actual applied load rather than at the classical buckling load as Koiter's general stability theory. The results are compared with ABAQUS simulation results. A significant positive shift of the postbuckling b coefficient is found which indicates that the Koiter's general theory first published in 1945, has significantly overestimated the imperfection sensitivity of the structure. Also, compare with the Koiter's general stability theory, the valid region is significantly increased by using Hui's postbuckling theory.