Failure modes of circular hollow members with flattened edges

Abstract

In this paper, the behaviour of circular hollow members with flattened edges is studied. Starting from experimental testing, an unexpected failure mode under compressive loading is demonstrated, which is connected with the excessive plastification of the area near the flattened edge. The experimental model is simulated numerically using an appropriate finite element model and nonlinear analysis. Finally, a parametric analysis of 24 different sections is performed in order to clarify the limits between the failure modes, and useful diagrams are obtained. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.