Imperfection sensitivity of flat plates under combined compression and shear

Finite element analysis allows fully non-linear analysis of shells containi ng geometric imperfections. However, such an analysis requires information on the exact size and shape of the imperfection to be modelled, in order to produce accurate results on which designs can be based. Tn the absence of such data it is generally recommended that the imperfection be modelled on the first eigenmode with an amplitude selected according to manufacturing p rocedure. This paper presents the effects of imperfection shape and amplitu de on the buckling and postbuckling behaviour of one specific case, to test the accuracy of such recommendations. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All r ights reserved.