The influence of flanged end constraints on smooth curved tubes under in-plane bending

Abstract

A theoretical solution is presented for the in-plane bending linear elastic deformation behaviour of smooth circular cross-section, constant thickness pipe bends whose ends are terminated by rigid flanges. The technique employs the theorem of minimum total potential energy with suitable kinematically admissible displacements in the form of trigonometric series. Results are given covering a fairly wide spectrum of practical bend geometries. These are compared with previous theoretical predictions and with various published experimental data. Some test results which were obtained during the present investigation are also given.