Deformation and energy absorption of aluminum square tubes with dynamic axial compressive load

Buckling, impact resistance and energy absorption of dynamic axial compressed aluminum square tube are discussed. Numerical analysis of the deformation of the square tube is made by a finite element method. The result shows that ripples of buckling are produced in the surfaces of the tube wall when the striking mass reaches to a certain value. The wave pattern on the deformed tube wall of 1 mm thick is concave-convex pattern in adjoining surface, while that of 2 mm thick is convex pattern in all surfaces. Absorbed energy of the deformed tube increases in proportion to axial displacement of the tube. Experimental results agree approximately with those of the finite element method analysis.