CHAPTER 4 - Bending Theory of Open Circular Cylindrical Shells

Abstract

This chapter discusses the bending theory of open circular cylindrical shells. If a circular cylindrical shell is formed such that the generator parallel to the x-axis does not close on itself, the shell so formed is termed an open circular cylindrical shell. Such shells are commonly used as roofing structures and as such are normally supported at the ends by rigid diaphragms, termed traverses, which are in turn supported by columns. It will be immediately realized that the problem of analyzing such a shell is very much more complicated than in the case for a closed cylindrical shell. Though it is relatively easy to establish the exact governing equations of this problem, in this form, they are not amenable to solution and of the theories proposed all demand simplifying assumptions to achieve a solution. That Schorer's assumptions are justifiable may be shown by comparing the numerical values for the stress resultants for open cylindrical shells obtained from his theory with those derived from more rigorous theories. Open cylindrical shells are commonly used as roofing structures and as such are normally supported at the ends by rigid traverses.