Limit Loads Using Extended Variational Concepts in Plasticity

Abstract

Lower-bound limit load estimates are relevant from a standpoint of pressure component design, and are acceptable quantities for ascertaining primary stress limits. Elastic modulus adjustment procedures, used in conjunction with linear elastic finite element analyses, generate both statically admissible stress distributions and kinematically admissible strain distributions. Mura’s variational formulation for determining limit loads, originally developed as an alternative to the classical method, is extended further by allowing the elastic calculated stress fields to exceed yield provided they satisfy the “integral mean of yield” criterion. Consequently, improved lower-bound values for limit loads are obtained by solving a simple quadratic equation. The improved lower-bound limit load determination procedure, which is designated “the mα method,” is applied to symmetric as well as nonsymmetric components. [S0094-9930(00)01103-3]