Buckling of Eccentrically Loaded Curved Panels

Abstract

Determination of the feasibility of utilizing prefabricated, curved steel panels in the construction of tall cylindrical shells. A unique method of load testing curved panels was developed which allowed for the inclusion of actual elastic boundary conditions. A theoretical development is presented that includes both the effects of initial imperfections and eccentricity. The specific purpose of the research was to determine the buckling capacity of cold‐rolled, steel, curved panels and to investigate the effect stiffeners had on the buckling capacity. The research involved seventeen full scale tests on curved panels of 16, 14 and 12 gage thicknesses.