An evaluation of codes and standards related to buckling of cylindrical shells subjected to axial compression, bending and external pressure

A study has been made of the buckling strength of unstiffened and ring stiffened cylindrical shells subjected to axial compression, bending moment and external pressure. The modes of failure investigated are: local shell buckling, general instability and column buckling of cylinders under axial compression; local shell buckling of cylinders subjected to bending moment; and local shell buckling and general instability of cylinders subjected to external pressure. The theoretical equations are presented for each load condition and buckling mode. These are followed by simplified equations which are independent of the number of buckling waves.;A compilation has been made of the results of 600 buckling tests performed on unstiffened and ring stiffened fabricated steel cylinders subjected to axial compression, bending moment or external pressure. The test database is limited to cylinders that were fabricated from flat plate and welded together or from electric resistance welded tubes. These models are representative of actual structures.;The buckling design equations given by the following codes and standards: AISC AUST, API BUL 2U, API RP 2A-LRFD, API PR 2A-WSD, API STD 620, API STD 650, ASME VIII, ASME CODE CASE N-284, AWWA D100, DIN 18800, ECCS 1988 AND NPD 1990 are summarized. The test results have been compared with the applicable design equations from these sets of rules. A statistical analysis was made of the equations for every load type and failure mode to determine which equations correlated best with the test data.;The best equations from the several sets of rules are identified and recommendations are made for new or modified equations which provide a better correlation with the test results. Sample problems are presented which utilize the recommended equations. A need for additional tests was identified and a test program was recommended.