Simplified lower bound limit analysis of pressurised cylinder/cylinder intersections using generalised yield criteria

In this paper a simple method of deriving lower bound limit loads for thin shell structures is presented. This simple method is based on the method of elastic compensation, previously developed by Mackenzie and Boyle, which is here extended to thin shell finite-element analysis using generalised yield criteria. Limit loads are obtained for a range of cylinder/cylinder intersections under internal pressure. The calculated limit pressures are compared with results available in the literature and with new elasto-plastic analyses and show that the method can be used to quickly obtain practical results.