Stability Analysis of Laminated Cylindrical Shells under Combined Axial Compression and Non-Uniform External Pressure

This study investigates geometrical non-linear analysis of composite circular cylindrical shells under external pressure over part of their surfaces and also shells subjected to combined axial compression and triangular external pressure. Donnell non-linear shell theory along with first order shear deformation theory (FOSD) are adopted in the analysis. In the case of combined axial compression and triangular external pressure post-buckling curves for various shell stacking sequences and different load interaction parameter are traced. Comparison of the results for uniform and triangular external pressures in combination with axial compression applied to the laminated cylindrical shells is carried out in terms of interaction buckling curves and load-deflection and load-shortening diagrams.