On the buckling of thin tensioned sheets with cracks and slots

Abstract

The problem of local buckling in tensioned sheets with holes is discussed in relation to its effect on fracture and fatigue characteristics. The results of an experimental investigation designed to determine the tensile buckling stress are presented. The results indicate that for the range of the parameters investigated, the sheet thickness to hole length ratio and a nondimensional hole shape parameter are the dominant geometric variables. It is shown that the results obtained in the investigation described and the results obtained by other investigators can be described by a single formula. The physical significance of local buckling is discussed and particular emphasis is placed on the importance of accounting for buckling in residual strength analyses of thin cracked sheets. Recommendations are made for the standardization of the buckling stress determination in terms of its relationship to the effect of middle-surface stretching due to the bending. Finally, the influence of the buckling process on plane stress fracture toughness values, Kc, obtained from center cracked sheet specimens is discussed. © 1972.