Stability Analysis Of A Delaminated Beam Subjected To Follower Compression

A stability analysis of a delaminated 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 as this specific configuration of beam subjected to follower force has garnered great interest among the structural community. The vibration analysis on this delaminated beam is conducted to identify the critical compression load for flutter or buckling instability for the beam. In addition, the critical spring stiffness is derived to determine the distinct type of instability of the beam under the follower compression. Furthermore, the effect of the location of the delamination both in the thickness and the longitudinal direction and the length of the delamination on the critical compressive load for buckling or flutter instability of the beam is completely studied through a mechanics analysis. It is hoped that this research would provide a benchmark on the stability analysis of delaminated structures in engineering applications, especially for structures subjected to follower compressive load. Copyright © 2005 by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Inc. All rights reserved