Computer generated elasto-plastic design data for pressure loaded circular plates

Abstract Two finite-difference computer programs for the non-axisymmetric elasto-plastic large deflection analysis of circular plates are described. One of the programs uses a constitutive model based on the Ilyushin full-section yield criterion, whereas the other uses the von Mises layered yield criterion. The programs have been used to model the full-range response including multi-stage unloading, of uniformly loaded circular plates with various boundary conditions for a range of slendernesses. From the computed results design charts of first yield over-pressure versus maximum and residual centre deflection have been compiled. A numerical example of the use of these charts in the design of an end closure to a cylindrical pressure vessel is presented. Finally, sample charts for ‘pre-dished’ plates are presented as an illustration of the further potential of these programs for design data generation.