Tests of fabricated steel cylinders subjected to transverse loads

Abstract The inelastic shear behavior of large-diameter cylindrical shells subjected to transverse loads was investigated. Two specimens of 1270 mm diameter were tested under different boundary conditions. The tests were preceded by finite element simulation in order to help plan the tests and to offer insight into the findings. Measurement of the geometric imperfections and the welding stresses was made prior to testing and the testing itself was carried out in both the pre-buckling and the post-buckling ranges. The finite element predictions and predictions made using other design equations compare favorably with the test results.