A Review on Performance of Thin-Walled Metallic Tubes as Energy Absorbing Structures

Abstract

Energy-absorbing structures made from thin-walled metallic tubes are lighter in weight, fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly. Despite these advantages, several other issues should be taken into account to provide better energy absorption capacity and increased crashworthiness. A better knowledge of selecting proper material and geometrical design can provide the occupants with better safety and lesser fuel consumption. This study presents a review of recent advances of thin-walled metal tubes with different configurations. Under static and dynamic loading conditions, a detailed explanation of the axial compression behaviour and energy absorption of thin-walled tubular structures is focused in this study. Many researchers have suggested that with the use of such energy-absorbing devices, structural deformations are ensured to minimize the damage to the main structural frame of automobiles.