Axial crushing of square tubes

Abstract The mechanics of the large deformation of a square tube under axial load is discussed. Theoretical results are substantiated by experimental results. The elastic buckling load is predicted by assuming the tube to be comprised of four plates simply supported at their edges. The highest load the tube can sustain is predicted by allowing for the development of plasticity near the corners. The mean crushing load is predicted from an incremental plasticity analysis which allows for travelling plastic hinges. Comparison with circular tube behaviour is considered and an attempt to explain some of the peculiarities is made.