QUASI-STATIC ANALYSIS OF STRUCTURAL IMPACT DAMAGE

This article explores the accuracy of quasi-static methods of analysis for predicting the inelastic behaviour of structural impact problems. The quasi-static behaviour of fully clamped beams when struck at the mid-span by a rigid mass, which produces either infinitesimal displacements or finite transverse displacement for sufficiently large impact loads, is examined and compared with the corresponding exact theoretical predictions of dynamic rigid-plastic analyses. Some comparisons are also made with experimental results. The quasi-static behaviour of beam grillages, pipelines and axially impacted tubes when struck by rigid masses is also discussed. Comparisons are made between the quasi-static theoretical predictions and experimental results and some observations are offered on the adequacy of quasi-static methods for design purposes.