A Simple Upper-Bound Method for Calculating Approximate Shakedown Loads

Abstract

A simple approach for calculating upper-bound shakedown loads is described. The method is based on a series of iterative elastic finite element analyses (the elastic compensation procedure) applied to Koiter’s upper-bound shakedown theorem. The method is demonstrated for a typical pressure vessel application; an axisymmetric nozzle in a spherical shell. Several geometrical configurations are investigated. The calculated upper-bound shakedown loads are compared with lower-bound results obtained by the authors, simple shakedown criteria, and various results given in the literature.