Analysis of imperfect column buckling under intermediate velocity impact

This paper theoretically investigates the dynamic buckling characteristics of imperfect columns subjected to axial intermediate velocity impact loads. Based on the observations of tested columns under intermediate velocity fl uid-solid impact, the dynamic buckling equation of imperfect columns is sim plified and solved. A theoretical solution of the equation is derived. Acco rding to the characteristics of the theoretical solution, a dynamic bucklin g criterion is proposed to determine the critical buckling condition and to estimate the dynamic buckling critical load. Results obtained in the prese nt study agree well with the experimental and numerical results. Effects of the initial imperfection, slenderness ratio of columns and dynamic load du ration on dynamic buckling properties of columns under intermediate velocit y impact are also discussed in the present study. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.