Design of laminated composite cylindrical shells under axial compression

Approximate expressions describing shape efficiency are derived and two cha rts are shown that help with design. The first is a failure chart that show s the complete set of possible designs (and lay-ups) that allow the complex ity of the problem to be presented in a simple way. The second is a chart s howing optimal lay-ups for a cylindrical shell subject to axial compression . The load-bearing efficiency of cylindrical shells derives from both the p roperties of the material of which they are made and from the shape itself. Generally, thin-walled or slender shapes are more efficient (meaning light er and more economical in the use of material) than thick-walled or solid s ections. The limit in shape efficiency is either set by manufacturing const raints or, ultimately, by the properties of the material from which it is m ade. Laminated composite materials are more difficult to analyse than conve ntional isotropic materials, such as aluminium alloys, because of the addit ional need to consider the variation of ply orientation through the thickne ss of the laminate. These ultimate limits are examined and determined by a balance between competitive failure mechanisms. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science L td. All rights reserved.