Non-destructive characterization of cylindrical shells by probing: Identification of the probing location from energy barrier and probing forces using Measured Geometric Imperfections (MGI)

Abstract

In the present study, the prediction of the critical buckling load of an axially compressed cylindrical shell is investigated based on the novel non-destructive probing method with the aid of Measured Geometric Imperfections (MGI). A laser point scanner is used to obtain the imperfection data. The imperfection data is analyzed to find a sample space of points where the buckling is likely to initiate. The optimum location for probing is determined from the sample set by finding the Least Resistance Path (LRP) to probing using two methods, one based on the Energy barrier and the other from the reaction forces observed corresponding to deep probe advancements. It is found that MGI can aid the procedure by improving the selection of the probing points and hence the prediction accuracy; However, MGI does not eliminate the need for multiple probing. The study has shown the possibility of obtaining multiple probing locations that can predict the peak load within acceptable levels of accuracy.