An alternative method for determining the behaviour of round stocky tubes subjected to an axial crush load

Abstract An approximate method for determining the range of load oscillations and load-deflection behaviour of axially crushed round stocky tubes which deform in an axisymmetric mode is developed. Theoretical estimates based on different kinematic models are compared with each other and with experimental observations. Results indicate that the effects of axial and hoop stresses, imperfection sensitivity, strain-hardening and hinge curvature, should be considered in the analysis if the tube's behaviour is to be predicted accurately.