Dynamic stability of fluid-conveying cylindrical shells using a hybrid finite element approach

This brief paper outlines an analytical model for the study of static and dynamic stability of thin cylindrical shells carrying a flowing fluid. The method used is ct hybrid finite element method combining the flexibility of the conventional finite element method and the accuracy of exact displacement functions as determined by Sanders' full shell theory. This formulation yields the natural frequencies and modes of vibration of systems defined by boundary conditions of the usual type. It can predict a loss of stability by either buckling or flutter. Calculations were made, and agreement with published results shows that this approach is sound and has some advantages over other methods.