A comprehensive stability analysis of a cracked beam subjected to follower compression

A comprehensive analysis of the stability of a cracked beam subjected to a follower compressive load is presented. The beam is fixed at its left end and restrained by a translational spring at its right end. The vibration analysis on such cracked beam is conducted to identify the critical compression load for flutter or buckling instability based on the variation of the fist two resonant frequencies of the beam. Besides, the effect of the crack\u27s intensity and location on the buckling or flutter compressive load is studied through comprehensive mechanics analysis. It is hoped that this research may provide a benchmark on the stability analysis of cracked structures in engineering applications, especially for structures subjected to follower compressive load. (C) 2004 Published by Elsevier Ltd