Buckling analysis of thick plates using a single variable simple plate theory

Abstract

Buckling analysis of thick plates has been carried out herein by using a single variable simple plate theory. Theory used herein is a third order shear deformation plate theory which uses a single displacement function for the complete formulation of plates. Plate formulation is governed by only one governing differential equation. Governing equation of the theory has close resemblance to that of Classical Plate Theory. Thus, plate problems can be solved in the similar lines as in case of classical plate theory. Plate theory used herein does not require a shear correction coefficient. To check the efficacy of the theory buckling analysis of simply supported thick rectangular plates is carried out. Critical buckling loads for simply supported plates are evaluated and the results obtained are compared to other shear deformation plate theories. Buckling load results are found to be in good agreement with other plate theory results.